My three year old son just competed in his first BMX race. He is only three, but hanging with the big kids. I didn't hit the track until I had ten years under my belt, it was still a nervous affair.
My son went around the track in practice, had a wipe out but was still excited to be riding with the other kids. I let him take his bike beside the track and gave him some room to observe and be a part of things. After a few minutes of hanging out he took to the track on his own, right up and over the jumps! He came back to me with a huge smile and sharing his personal victory.
After a few laps of practice it was time for the real thing. We sat at the gate as the start count went off: "riders ready, watch the lights" (red light then green light) and the gate dropped. Off went my son with all the excitement of a rocket.
The announcer's voice lit up with joy as he called Lucas' name and age. The crowd came alive with the encouragement and he sped down the second straight.
There were three jumps on the track that were too big for him to climb up so I was waiting at the first to give him a boost. Up and over the first I cheered him on. A track official confronted me for helping but with the approval from the start gate personal I kept on going. The official and I chatted some more which lead to him helping Lucas on the second jump. Lucas hit the final straight and with a final assist up the table top he rode the final jump for a third place finish. Not bad for a moto of three riders!
The night was filled with continued excitement as the second moto and then the final race were held. Lucas got a trophy for third place and had a big smile on his face. We rode home to sound of the Berenstain Bears stories and Jack Johnson, arriving at our door with 11:00 on the clock. A long night but well worth it!
I also raced, my first time on a track since I was eighteen. I finished fourth out of seven dudes, so it wasn't too shabby.
I feel revitalized in my spirit at having set out to accomplish something and living it. I hope to live some more in other areas of my life!
