BMX is a high-energy style of bicycling in which riders test their bike-handling skills and techniques through a series of ramps, rollers, and berms. A pump track is a short trail loop meant to be ridden by using the track features to maintain momentum and carry speed through the technical terrain. This style of trail is new to Allen County, but it’s an important element of engaging youth in cycling, and establishing a lifelong love for riding and staying active.
Thrive has been involved in several recent initiatives and events to introduce BMX to Allen County:
La Harpe BMX Pump Track
In La Harpe, Thrive has facilitated an intensive resident-led community revitalization program, funded by the Kansas Health Foundation. One of the community’s primary focus areas is La Harpe City Park, where recent years have seen several significant improvements, such as the addition of a zip line, new playground equipment, and a walking trail. The next thing the community wants to add, in an initiative led by local youth, is the construction of a kid-friendly BMX Pump Track. An online crowdfunding campaign is raising over $20,000 for the pump track and other park improvements:
Iola High School students Jordan Swart and Diamend McFadden are leading the youth movement to bring the BMX pump track to La Harpe.
BMX Hall-of-Famer Talks Bikes in Iola
Kansas BMX hall-of-fame bicyclist Darrell Pulliam recently visited Iola High School to talk to students about his career as a professional BMX rider, and to work with student leaders planning the BMX pump track:
BMX Bikes Fly at the Bowlus
Thrive also brought the Forward BMX Show to the Bowlus Fine Arts Center to give an energetic demonstration of BMX tricks and skills USD 257 students, even getting the Principal involved in the show:
Remember, our local bike shop, Southwind Cycle and Outdoor, carries high-quality BMX bikes and gear.
Thrive is excited to be a part of bringing BMX to Allen County!
