BMX takes off in Chile

BMX cyclists met in Santiago, Chile to celebrate World BMX day. They cycled together in the streets and squares in the city.

Diego Galdames loves being part of the BMX community.

Diego Galdames: "For me, being a rider is being free. You get on your bike, and it's as if you entered a world apart. You begin to enjoy it. And all the people who practise this sport then start to be your family and more than just people you know."

BMX began in the 1970s in southern California. Kids tried to copy motorcycle racing with their bikes. This new style got popular very quickly and became a real sport in 1981.

In the 2008 Beijing Olympics, there was a BMX track with hills and jumps. And in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, they had freestyle BMX as a sport. In freestyle BMX, riders do spins and tricks.

Ivan Galdames enjoys the freedom of BMX.

Iván Galdames: "Well, the truth is that BMX is a lifestyle because it can be done on the street, on a ramp - it's super free. Everyone looks for their modality where it suits them best. As I told you, it's a lifestyle because every moment that I do it, I disconnect from any situation, whether good or bad. It's just me and my bike."

BMX has something for everyone. There are competitions for beginners to advanced riders.

Claudio Rodriguez is trying to make the sport more popular in Santiago.

Claudio Rodriguez: "This event is meant to celebrate BMX, and motivate many people to practise it. Make it known in different parts of the city and make the sport as popular as possible."

BMX is becoming more popular in Chile. They've built a bike park in Santa Fe city. In November 2022, it'll host the World Championships.

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