Mountain Raiders BMX Club Hosts Major National Competition

Hundreds of BMX riders from across New Zealand and beyond are gearing up for a significant competition at the Lloyd Elsmore Park track this Labour Weekend. The event, hosted by the Mountain Raiders BMX Club, marks one of the year’s largest national meets. The club’s president, Greg Buckley, expressed pride in the club’s achievements, stating that being awarded the North Island Titles is a testament to their ongoing dedication and hard work.

The Mountain Raiders BMX Club has emerged as a prominent force in east Auckland sports over the past decade. After relocating from their long-time home at Pigeon Mountain, the club collaborated with the Auckland Council to create a state-of-the-art BMX track. This facility not only serves as a competitive venue but also as a community hub maintained by dedicated volunteers. On a recent visit to the park, groundsman Chris “Radar” Biddick was busy preparing the area ahead of the expected crowd.

Buckley anticipates attendance could reach up to 3,000 people, prompting the installation of scaffolding grandstands to accommodate competitors, families, and spectators. He emphasized the versatility of the track, which caters to riders of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned competitors.

The BMXNZ North Island Titles will feature a range of riders, some traveling from as far as Tahiti and Australia. A highlight of the event is the prestigious Mighty 11s competition, which brings together top 11-year-old riders from both New Zealand and Australia. According to BMXNZ, the Mighty 11s is considered “one of the most iconic events in BMX,” with a tradition that dates back to the 1980s.

Among the representatives from the Mountain Raiders in the New Zealand Mighty 11s team are Olivia Anderson, Delan Johns, and Ruby Buckley. The trio, all of whom were training for the event at Lloyd Elsmore Park on October 19, 2023, expressed their excitement about competing and the honor of representing their country.

This weekend’s competition not only serves as a platform for the Mighty 11s but also features riders from various age groups, from eight years old to seniors over 60 years. The event doubles as a round of the 2025 BMXNZ National Series and a National Qualifying Meeting for the 2026 National Championships.

Buckley also highlighted the club’s recent investment in new rider starter gates, which cost approximately $70,000. This significant upgrade reflects the club’s commitment to providing quality facilities for its members and is made possible through the support of local businesses and community members.

As the Mountain Raiders BMX Club prepares for this momentous occasion, the excitement is palpable among participants and supporters alike, marking a proud chapter in the club’s history and a celebration of BMX racing in New Zealand.