Eight riders enjoyed double success as Launceston staged a successful and sun-soaked Tasmanian BMX Championships over the weekend.
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Amy Bracken and Shelby Steward, of Launceston BMX Club, were joined by Saxon Van Anholt and Max Jackson, of Southern City BMX Club, along with Wynyard quartet Reece Ellis, Jarrod Emerton, Matthew French and Tahlia Broomhall to savour victory on Saturday and Sunday.
Having lost the 2020 national championships to coronavirus, the host club is hoping the well-received upgrades to the St Leonards track will be in pole position to host the 2021 titles.
The club's David Steward said it was a hugely successful weekend.
"Racing was very good and there were no major crashes which is always pleasing," he said. "The weather was beautiful, the track stood up wonderfully well and the venue was highly praised.
"COVID ripped the heart out of a lot of community sports but the three BMX clubs in Tasmania have been very diligent meeting those requirements and also BMX Australia's as it transitions into Aus Cycling."
Improvements to the starting gate were among the considerable upgrades at the track intended for the national championships.
A field of 82 riders hit the track, reduced from normal fields between 120 and 200 due to the reduction in mainland competitors.
Steward encouraged interested riders to join their local clubs with training evenings held at St Leonards on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.
"Our club has had a lot of new recruits across all age groups," he said.
"We've got quite a few girls taking part and want to encourage more to get involved.
"Tasmania is a desirable location for BMX and mountain biking. We usually have great support from Victoria and we've had people from as far away as Queensland."