History 1980 - University of BMX

History 1980
History of BMX - year 1980
The story continues:
Although I am writing about the History of European BMX as I know it, you will find that a lot of
the information comes from Holland and from other countries outside Europe.
I think one can say that the developments in Holland, almost reflects the developments as they
happened in most of the other countries, not only in Europe but even worldwide. There are a lot
of comparisons. It might give a good idea how BMX progressed in general in the early days in
any country.
Since most information on BMX developments outside Europe aren't known to a lot of people. I
do mention in my stories the dates and facts of which I am certain they are correct. I also state
situations and happenings that are interesting enough to mention.
At first as Gerrit Does and later on as General Secretary of I.BMX.F., I had almost all
international contacts up and till 1985 with individuals world-wide, with countries/ organizations
asking for an I.BMX.F. affiliation. Over the same period I also can report on what I know on
outside Europe developments in BMX.
In Chile the pioneer of BMX development was Mr. Vincenzo Cascino. He started getting
organized in 1980 and founded the C.B.X. - Comision Nacional de Bicicross. The center of
development was Las Condes, inside Santiago de Chile. Ending 1980 there were about 350
license holders.
In January,
I received SE Racing's Dealer DIMENSIONS and BMX BUGLE through Scot A. Breithaupt.
In the USA, thanks to a motorcylce movie called ON ANY SUNDAY, in which shots of youngster
riding BMX bike, the sport took off quickly in the 70's. Ending 1979, early 1980 the same
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History 1980
filmmaker Don Shoemaker filmed On an Sunday II.
January 8th., a new BMX club using a velodrome.
Mr. Ruud van ter Beek called. A group of enthusiasts was in the progress of starting a club in
the city of Apeldoorn in Holland. Becoming a section of the already bicycle club, they planned a
track to be built inside a velodrome!!! A unique idea and it was realized later on.
January 21st., promotional meeting in Beek & Donk (Holland).
Final result was that on January 28th a club was formed officially. The city of Beek & Donk
already had promised building a new track to be ready sometime April 1980. Paul & Bart de
Jong
from www.F
ATbmx.com
were one of the first members of this clubs and their father became the club's secretary.
January 25th. A telephone call from Mr. Jansen from the city of Weert.
In progress of starting a club also. During 1980 about 25 till 30 BMX demonstrations nationwide
(Holland) have been given to promote BMX.
Some of the demo's were given at: Flag-parade VIERDAAGSE Nijmegen
May 10th: Demo at De Bilt,
May 18th: Demo at Weert,
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History 1980
June 21st: Demo at Weert(2),
July 14th: Demo at Nijmegen,
July 20th: Demo at Beekse Bergen - Hilvarenbeek,
July 26th: Demo at Rotterdam,
Sept 21st: Demo at Hillegom,
I picked just a few of the activities that were going on in Holland to show you that the interest in
the sport was just great.
1980 was the 2nd official BMX racing season in Holland. Licenses were H.fl. 30,= (approx.
12$). Clubs affiliated January 25th. were: Schijndel, Eindhoven, Veldhoven, Waalre, Odiliapeel
and Volkel.
January 30th., first official talks with KNWU (Royal Dutch Cycling Federation)
representatives,
concerning a possible merge between the S.F.N. and the K.N.W.U. Chairman of the road cycle
commission Mr. Wim Roosenburg was the one to take the initiative. First official talk was with M
r.
Dingenouts
(vice-president KNWU - Board of directors) and later on
Mr. v.d. Groen
(treasurer KNWU) was included in the talks.
February 2nd., talk about a BMX indoor event Arnhem-Holland.
A report on a meeting with Mrs. Horn and Mr. v.d. Ven of the RIJNHAL in Arnhem to discuss
the possible organization of a BMX Indoor Race, scheduled for 28 September 1980.
Due to circumstance this event did NOT take place in 1980 (mainly financing a "dirt" indoor
track was the problem at the time).
February 25th through March 2nd, Tweewieler RAI - Amsterdam.
Besides Milan (Italy) and Cologne (Germany), the RAI event in Amsterdam is one of the biggest
motorcycle and bicycle-shows in Europe.Promo stand SFN present. SFN members/riders held
BMX demo's on an artificial track and SFN trick team "Lucky Seven" was present as well. Two
American Pro's were present to give demonstrations as well: Geoff Bottema (nick-name
"Coca-Cola Cowboy") and
Toby Henderson
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History 1980
(both on Raleigh). They were the first ever Americans to come over to Europe to promote BMX.
American Worldchamp motorcycle trials
Bernie Schreiber
gave demo's as well on a motor-cycle ofcourse.
During RAI exhibition, contacts were made with the representatives of the bicycle industry such
as: Nishiki's Mr. Molengraaf, Dolf v. Vliet, Shimano's Mr. Hartman, Motobecane's Mr. Lamme,
Batavus
Mr. Hellinga
, T.I Raleigh
Mr. Derksen
, Bell Ray's
Mr. Frank van Meeuwen
, Protec Mrs. Carry Peterson
.
Riders helping out giving demonstrations on racing BMX during RAI: Tommy Verbakel, Mark
Wiebrands
,
Wouter Schoneveld
,
Lammert Moerman
,
Jan Heusschen
,
Peter v.d. Gevel
en
Nico
Does
. Special attention was given to Peter v.d. Gevel on side-hack with friend
Peter van Rooy
, duo PUSH & PEDAL.
Official S.F.N. qualified BMX race bikes early 1980: Gazelle, Peugeot, Motobecane MX 10,
Batavus, Dolf van Vliet BMX, Webco, Nishiki MX 400, Giant serie, Gicom serie BMX 3000,
Apprillia Agu, T.I. Raleigh serie RAMPAR and Union Shotgun.
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History 1980
The RAI bicycle exhibition trickered a lot of activities from as well as the industry (essential for a
good bases) as potential BMX'ers and organizers. Being present at the RAI proved to be a very
important marketing tool to get BMX going.
Interesting fact: S.F.N. did not have to pay any expenses for being on the RAI show in
Amsterdam: the booth was free, entry was free, we delivered the demo team and made
promotion for a new bicycle sport, which would benefit the manufacturers/importers as well.
During the 6 days of the RAI exhibition, over 120.000 people were introduced to BMX.
February, issue nr. 2 of a trade magazine in cycling called TWEEWIELER published this
story:
People in the culcing business in Holland wondered if BMX realy had a change of surviving and
becoming an accepted sport.
February 25th., second official talk (concerning merge!) at KNWU office,
by Gerrit Does and Louis Vrijdag of the S.F.N. with KNWU representatives Mr. Hylkema
(president),
Mr. v.d. Groen
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History 1980
(treasurer) and
Mr. Westerveld
(general secretary).
March 27th., during the Annual Congress of the KNWU,
Gerrit Does and Louis Vrijdag were present. Gerrit Does explained all about BMX and showed
the Yamaha Gold Cup film. The national Press was present, including national TV station AVRO
and the directors of a famous sports program called "AVRO Sportpanorama". They reported on
BMX.
SFN officialy integrated into the KNWU December 16th. 1980 by starting at that date with the
KNWU Fietscross-sportcommission.
Members of the first BMX Committee of KNWU were:
G. Does - chairman, H. Brander, H. de Groot, H. v.d. Kort, G. Rooijakkers, P. v. Someren, L.
Vrijdag en J v.d. Wiel.
February 28th., contact with Sports Ink.'s president Mario Machado on stickers I.B.M.F
and a promo film through mr. Bill Pippin.
March 1980, Pierre Karsmakers did start a sponsored team with top Dutch riders on WEBCO
Inc. and TORKER.
Teammembers were: Peter Ploemen (Torker), Nico Does, Ludy v.d. Werff and Addie v.d. Ven
(all on Webco).
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History 1980
March 7th., a second federation already in Belgium!
I received a telephone-call from Mr. Armand Blondiau (Belgium). He resigned from the B.C.B.
(Belgium BMX Federation) and is now in the process of starting his own BMX organization (so...
now already a 2nd. organization in Belgium, probably called the F.B.B. - Federation Belgique de
Bicrossing).
March 17th. , first contact with Germany on BMX.
On this date we had our first contact with a German contact, Mr. E. Teichreber from Baunach,
Germany.
He asked for info on the sport of BMX, parts and rules. We made an appointment to meet some
time April 1980.
March 1980, also in Holland a 2nd BMX organisation started.
Also March 1980 a 2nd., although "commercial" organization got off the ground in Holland
called STIFOR (Stichting Fietscross Organisatie Randstad). They were not really a threat to the
SFN/KNWU, were active in the area around Amsterdam and existed only for about 6 years.
Their main man was
Mr. Henk
Wendelgelst
f
rom Amsterdam - Holland, a former motorcycle 6-days trails rider and mechanic at the
Husqvarna moto-cross distributor in Holland.
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History 1980
March 19th, contact with Cine Relation from Koln - Germany,
Mr. Alfred Noel. got our address through GG Consultants who met us during the RAI exhibition
asking for more detailed info in order to promote BMX in Germany. They also made an
appointment to come over to Eindhoven and make a 5-6 minute film for "TV ZWEITE
DEUTCHE FERNSEHEN". It was the intention to give as much info as possible on the present
status of this new sport and its development both for Europe and world-wide.
March 19th. GD in contact with Santa Pod Raceway ltd.,
in Shortlands-Bromley England and spoke to Mr. Bob Phelps, director. Bob Osborn (BMX
Action) mentioned
Mr. Sammy Miller
to me as a potential BMX promoter. However this was a different Sammy Miller then Bob
Osborn did mean. This Sammy Miller was a drag Racing promoter. He gave me the address of
Sammy Miller on Wayne, New Jersey - USA a manufacturer of alu BMX bikes, as they claimed
themselves, the lightest and strongest cycles around.
March 20th a letter came in from RTV - Rennteile Vertrieb, Mr. E. Teichreber (Germany).
Following a telephone call from March 17th. Mr. Teichreber wanted more info on BMX and we
made an appointment to meet during a BMX event in Veldhoven, April 27th 1980. So we did.
March 20th. contact was established with Mr. Brian Montgomery of BH (Beistegui
Hermanos, S.A. - Spain) through mail.
Mr. Montgomery asked for rules and regulations etc. in order to try to get BMX going in Spain.
Mr. Montgomery did meet with us during the race in Beaune in May later on this year in France.
BH is a large bicycle manufacturer in Spain.
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History 1980
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March 21st, the N.S.F. (thé national sports organization) asked for info on building
tracks.
The Nederlandse Sport Federatie (sports- accommodation department of the NSF an
organization in which all Dutch sports organizations were represented) asks for info, how to built
BMX tracks.
March 24th., another cycle-club contacts the SFN / KNWU.
A call from the chairman of one of Hollands largest bicycleclub UNITAS - Assen, Mr. Harry
Brander
called. Wanted to affiliate with his new to be established BMX department. Together with BMX
club Gorredijk, FC Unitas - Assen became the leaders in BMX in the Northern part of our
country.
Very active in the Northern part of our country and more specific Friesland, was Mr. Harm
Comello
from
the city of Gorredijk and an employee of Batavus bicycles (of which a present brand is: "
B-One") in the period from 1980 till 1983 from the city of Gorredijk.
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History 1980
March 26th, contact with Shimano - Europe, Mr. Sam Takaoka.
A letter received from Shimano's General Manager, Mr. Sam Takaoka (Shimano Europe, at the
time located in Germany), asking for possibilities of sponsoring by them of the SFN - Holland.
March 29th., contact with biggest bicycle manufacturer in Germany, KYNAST.
After a first contact on March 17th., I did have meeting with representatives of one of the largest
bicycle manufacturers in Europe, KYNAST in Germany, Mr. Ortgies.
Production over 700.000 bikes (road) a year. An appointment was made to visit their main plant
and check out their proto-type BMX bicycle and advice them on BMX materials in general.
May 9th., meeting with the owner of bicycle manufacturer KYNAST in Germany, mr. Otto
Kynast himself.
This company wanted built BMX bikes that did meet the criteria to be allowed on a BMX
competition track. We discussed the Dutch S.F.N. rules and regulations on bicycles, clothing
and helmets.
April, in New-Zealand, cycle dealers take the initiative to promote BMX.
Auckland cycle retailers were quick to sense that BMX was hot and a dedicated group from the
Auckland's North Shore got to work in April 1980 and created Auckland's first BMX track. Guys
like Peter Thompson, John Sinclair, John Wright and John Booth, put both money and time into
this hairbrained sport which had kids swarming in and out their shops armed with BMX books
from the USA.
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History 1980
April 10th., meeting of the SFN - Advice-Councel.
The following activities by the SFN (Holland) and its clubs were presented:
In 1980 a German company will come over and make a report on BMX. The program is called
"RUNDKURS";
Articles on BMX were published in National school magazines like JIPPO and also weekly
magazine DONALD DUCK;
On August 16th AVRO TV would broadcast a special program on BMX racing called the "AVRO
GOLD CUP"; A BMX demo during a youth speedcycling round in Nijmegen;
A request for info on I.BMX.F. memberships came in from Spain and Germany.
April 16th., a thanks from from mr. Takaoka - Shimano.
I received a letter from Mr. Sam Takaoka of Shimano, thanking for hospitality during visit to the
Eindhoven BMX track. Enjoyed watching the racing and confirmed Shimano wanted to sponsor
S.F.N. in the future for sure.
April 23rd., Mrs. Cary Peterson introduced Halfords - England.
Mrs. Cary Peterson of Pro-tec helmets (USA) informs me about HALFORDS Ltd a large English
chain of shops. She advised: contact
Mr. D.P. Duffield from Worcestershire
- England. I contacted mr. Duffield and he told me he wants us (SFN) to come over with riders
to compete at a Halfords sponsored BMX event. Mr. Duffield was also planning to visit Holland,
probably during an event at the Eindhoven track. He wanted to know more about organizing
BMX races, setting up tracks and was interested in the promotional films I had at the time.
April 28th. Developments in England in the field of BMX.
The history behind the BMX Association development in the UK centered around a handful of
people who were very keen to see it take off and sustain itself as it has done in other countries.
Alan Rushton of Sports-Plus Promotions, ex-speed cycle rider Geoff Wiles, Peter Selby
filmmaker, and, originally,
Don Smith
ex-motor trials riders, all agreed to the setting up of one Association for riders, to set the rules,
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History 1980
organize the Championships and Promotions, provide a computer listing of individual riders,
countrywide classifications by age group and issue licenses.
Since that time, Don Smith has set up his own Association branch, but to prevent the formation
of multiple Associations it was generally agreed at the Harrogate meetings (HARROGATE
Bicycle show, last June 1980) to try to get him (Don Smith) to rejoin the fold. At the time Don
was working for Malcolm Jarvis' business "AMMACO".
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History 1980
Mr. David Duffield of HALFORDS, who felt very strongly for the future of the sport and in the
formation of just one non-profit making body, the .............. "
UK Bicycle
Moto-cross Association
" in short the UK.BMX.A.
Alan Rushton commented to the gathering that the story of the HARROGATE Show was BMX,
and that, already exhibitors had received an amazing reaction. UK.BMX.A was not a
manufacturers Association but one for the riders. With the help of Sports - Plus they intended to
spread technical knowledge as rapid as possible, newsletters free of charge to competitors and
associated members, product testing, and the UKBMXA would go to opening of track with bikes
from all of the manufacturers to have new-comers ride on them. Also promotional materials for
local Councils to convince them of BMX's future was needed and Geoff Wiles would be
available to every and anyone (also within the industry) to help. This is how finally the
UK.BMX.A saw the day of light, later on that same year.
April 30th. At present, 12 clubs affiliated to S.F.N. - Holland holding 450 license holders
at the time.
May 1st., S.F.N.- Holland national meeting with affiliated clubs.
Affiliated clubs 12, number of license-holders at this time 450. A total of 6 rounds counting for
Dutch National championship '80.
Awards to be won: National titles in all age groups and classes; Milky Way competition: Junior
Champs 1980 would receive a Gazelle BMX bike. Super Cup by the MON, top three riders from
all classes (highest points) would receive a trophy.
Entries at the following races:
Schijndel: 295 / Veldhoven 264 / Eindhoven 267 entries.
Sponsors 1980: Wrangler - Gazelle - Milky Way - Pro Tec - Shimano. Connection Shimano,
Osamu Takaoka.
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History 1980
Clubs affiliated in order of affiliation: Schijndel - Eindhoven - Veldhoven - Waalre - Odiliapeel Volkel Nistelrode - Apeldoorn - Assen - Nijmegen - Gorredijk en Baarn.
Classes in 1980: Juniors and Seniors (1981 also Experts).
6 National championship races: 3 before the summer holidays and 3 after.
- Schijndel, June 22nd,
- Volkel, August 24th,
- Eindhoven, June 28th,
- Beek & Donk, September 7th,
- Veldhoven, August 17th and
- Baarn, September 14th
First national scrouteneers were: Rien van Summeren en Piet van Hoof
Track approval: Jan v.d. Weijer sr. and Gerrit Does.
PR / Publicity : Gerard Rooyakkers.
In 1980 already contacts with people from Norway, Germany and Spain. Excisting
contacts with France, Belgium and England.
Racing in the early '80 s in France, Altkirch June 15th. On picture on right, René Nicolas (l)
"father" of French BMX organizing the presentation of awards. This is how an early '80 s
podium looked like. It was great fun.
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History 1980
May 17th, international event at Beaune - France.
The first international event in France organized by René Nicolas. The event took place on top
of a hill, very hard to find and very provisional set up. Still the hospitality and atmosphere was
great and compensated a lot. Due to drinking too much wine during a diner after the
competition, which was organized by Rene Nicolas, I got very sick.
May 23rd. I received a letter from Mrs. Cary Peterson (Protec-helmets), thanking me for the trip
she took with us to Beaune - France.
June 1980 article taken from BMX PLUS, telling about the development of BMX in and
abroad USA.
It's an interview with Jeff Bottema and Toby Henderson. Both riders have been to among
others, Holland in Europe to promote BMX and Raleigh bikes. Enjoy! Here there Amsterdam
bicycle show and exhibition experience.
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History 1980
The EUROPEAN
BMXdemo's
scene:and
a report
R.A.I.,
including BMX
such.by Gerrit Does on the Amsterdam Bicycle show at the
June 3rd., a German magazine called, "TOUR" rund ums rad, reported on BMX in an
article called "cross-crazy in den USA".
June 29th., International BMX race at the Citadel at Namur - Belgium.
This event was organized by Mr. Armand Blondiau. This BMX event was organized on the
grounds were normally the start takes place of 500 cc moto-cross Grand Prix moto-cross. It
rained all day long and the organization was very bad. In the end riders had to draw a lot to
determine the winner in a class. Crazy situation and NO promotion for BMX.
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History 1980
On pictures fltr, 1. Louis Vrijdag and his wife waiting for action, while Nico Does is helping his
yunger brother
Pieter
getting dressed for racing in the mud. 2. A well know sight during Gran Prix Moto-cross events,
on the back ground the grand stands on the explanada at the Citadel of Namur. 3. 1979 Dutch
National Champion in the Expert 16 & over class,
Hans Geresse
, loading his bike on Peter "the voice" Bijnen his car.
July 7th., Mr. Selby of C.I.P. England, visited with GD.
Mr. Peter Selby of CIP (Crown International Productions Ltd.) London - England, visited Holland
and witnessed a BMX race. Their company was getting involved in promoting BMX in England
in cooperation with Halfords.
July 9th., I received a letter from Jonas Oglaend A.s. Mr. Erik Green.
Mr. Green visited Holland during one of the Dutch Championships rounds in July. He wanted to
come back in September. Mr. Green was at that time busy promoting BMX in Norway through
the main bicycle company in Norway, Jonas Oglaend A.s. (brand name D.B.S.). Mr. Green
worked together with
Mr. Lars Forus, who would become the main pioneer of BMX in
Norway in the early days.
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History 1980
August 5th., a letter send to me by Renny Roker arrived at the office.
I received a letter from Mr.Renny Rooker, inviting us for the 1980 JAG BMX WORLD
CHAMPIONSHIPS. That would be the 2nd time SFN would send a team to the Worlds in
Indianapolis - USA.
From England, people came over to Holland to look at this new sport of BMX. Geoff Wiles and
Bob Phelps
were getting organized in England and we were able to explain to them our situation and
organization. I also introduced the English to the JAG BMX WORLD's to be held in the USA
December 1980. Geoff Wiles, acting as president of the board of UK.BMX.A Invited the SFN to
come over with a team of riders to be present at the official opening open their new track at
REDDITCH, later on this year.
August 16th, first ever televised BMX race in Waalre - Hollan by the AVRO.
The first ever televised BMX race in Waalre - Holland, broadcasted by a National TV station
called AVRO. It concerned a 1 hour program. The event was called: AVRO GOLD CUP.
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History 1980
Celebrities invited were the Americans: Perry Kramer (17 years old at the time) andDavid
Clinton
. The
boys stayed at my house for about 4 weeks and competed in the AVRO Gold Cup. Besides
being the "color men" during this event, both Perry and David gave BMX schools (clinics) in the
southern part of our country. Many riders showed up and learned a lot about BMX from both
professional riders.
The AVRO GOLD CUP was the beginning of a very long cooperation with the AVRO
organization from Hilversum (my city of birth). 112 riders took part divided in teams from all over
Holland. Also a special celebrity race was run with famous pop-stars at the time like Oscar
Harris
, Boll
and and Bolland
, TV celebrity
Martin Brozius
and former professional motocross star and my brother in law,
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History 1980
Pierre
Karsmakers
. Guess who that event won ?! Pierre of course, he even jumped the last "double" before the
finish-line (and almost crashed!). Its all on tape. Director of AVRO was
Rob Herzet
and the report was spoken by
Heinze Bakker
a very famous sports-reporter still today (year 2000).
To give you an idea about the cost of things around those days to organize a BMX event here
some figures: Hiring a complete PA system for one day costed h.fl. 150,=. (a firm called
JANSEN - Odiliapeel). Around this time in Holland, 15 clubs affiliated with the SFN and overall
705 license-holders.
Anyway, here the final results of the S.F.N. - AVRO TV BMX event on August 16th. 1980:
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History 1980
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History 1980
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History 1980
In
the
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Brad
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compete. August 30th., Halfords Team BMX - Britain's first (1st.) ever official BMX Event at
Redditch. UK.BMX.A. The track was kind of a down-hill track.
Promotor of this first event was mr. David Duffield (of Halfords) and he worked together with
Alan Rushton on this event.
September 2nd., a letter came in from Geoff Wiles,
National BMX Coordinator through Halfords thanking the SFN for being present during the start
and official opening of BMX racing in the U.K.
23 / 39
History 1980
September
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September 7th., seen here the S.F.N. poster to promote the Dutch National BMX
competition, round in Beek & Donk.
S.F.N. stand for "stichting Fietscross Nederland". The S.F.N. introduced BMX in Holland and did
run National Dutch Championships during 1979 and 1980. You can read all about the S.F.N. in
the History of BMX section, year 1978 and on. September 21st. A BMX demonstration by the SFN demoteam Lucky 7, in
Hillegom-Holland.
On invitation of a company called JANSSEN Open Haarden in Hillegom - Holland, the S.F.N.
(St. Fietscross Nederland) BMX demoteam LUCKY 7 travelled to the wwest part of Holland
promoting BMX.
An official "speaker" presented the demoteam and explained all about BMX to a large crowd
present. Check out the pictures on this activity.
foto's Hillegom demo.
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History 1980
September 26th. Letter from Mr.Malcolm Jarvis,
of AMMACO BMX (Mongoose distributor at the time), announcing the opening of a new track at
Chatham in England.
September 26th. S.F.N. - Holland,
organized a meeting in Hilversum with 10 main Dutch BMX manufacturers and
importers/distributors to evaluate the developments of the sport of BMX up till now. One of the
items discussed was the financing of further development of the sport of BMX. The proposal
was, to ask each manufacturer in Holland, to pay h.fl. 0,50 per BMX bike sold to the S.F.N. It
never came true. Expenses to rent the accommodation for this meeting at THE HOF van
HOLLAND in Hilversum: h.fl. 85,= (about 30 till 35 reps. from companies concerned were
present).
October 5th, opening of the 2nd. BMX track in England.
The 2nd official BMX track was opened at Chatham in England by Mr. Jarvis. This is their 1st
meeting at the Chatham track and the first official track in Kent. Working for Ammaco was
Don Smith
, former motorcycle trials World Champion and now involved in promoting BMX.
The UK.BMX.A - United Kingdom BMX Association - was formed earlier this year. A change
of officers took place after a short while,
Mr. Arthur Woods
replaced president
Geoff Wiles
and Geoff became the UK.BMX.A's National BMX Coordinator.
October 25th., a meeting with the new S.F.N. club-member "The Champs", an Eindhoven
BMX club.
S.F.N. helt a meeting with "The Champs" a club with over 200 members! S.F.N. wanted to
concentrate more on the National organization of things and offered "The Champs" to take over
the Promotional BMX track of the S.F.N. along the Welschapsedijk in Eindhoven.
25 / 39
History 1980
October 25th., during a special meeting of the S.F.N. (Holland) with all its affiliated clubs,
it was decided to agree to the inclusion of the S.F.N. in the K.N.W.U. (Royal Dutch
Cycling Federation).
November 9th., first official S.F.N. indoor race took place in Roosendaal - Holland in the
"Leysdream" hall.
Overall 168 entries. When we arrived we learned that the hall was double booked on that day:
BIG problems, still we managed to race on concrete floor. Main goal was to make it a
promotional event and that's what in fact happened.
November 13th., letter received from Crown International Productions Ltd.,
Mr. Peter Selby, explaining the company plans for the future. He informed me about the fact
that "last weekend" a second track was opened at Chatham (Mr. Jarvis' track!). Ending 1980 he
stated, there should be at least 5 tracks opened by then. He anticipated that approx. 30 tracks
would be open by the end of 1981 in England.
November 20th, the Annual congress of the KNWU agrees to the inclusion of the S.F.N.
in the KNWU. The S.F.N. affiliated clubs agreed to this inclusion on October 25th.
November 23rd., official Presentation of Awards,
Dutch National Champions at The Motel Eindhoven in Eindhoven-Holland. 10 Champions in
Junior classes and 6 Champions in Senior classes. Special designed Championship jerseys
were handed out to all Champs. In the so-called MILKY WAY competition, Junior Champs won
Gazelle BMX bike. An overall price to be won, was called MON Super Cup (Motocross
Organisation Netherlands) and counted for three riders in any class with highest points scored.
26 / 39
History 1980
Final results:
1. Mike v.d. Wiel (8y)
2. Jan v.d. Dungen (16y)
3. "Zonto" Dingen (14y)
*** foto met Mike, Jan en Zonto.
Another special price was presented by Pierre Karsmakers: "a BELL MOTO 3 full-face" helmet
for the 6 Senior class Champs. Last but not least, a special price for the Champ in the oldest
age-class at the the time: 16 & over Senior class Exchange trophy which was won in 1979 by
Hans Geresse
and in 1980 by
Addie v.d. Ven
. Wheely KING 1980:
Leon Walravens
. Two short films on BMX were shown. Expenses to rent the location/room that could hold
approx. 150 people were: h.fl. 759,=
27 / 39
History 1980
November/December,
was the time that Germany had its first official BMX organization. The official founder of the
Bund Deutscher Velo-Cross fahrer (BDVC) was Mr. Kurt Hammer. Mr. Hammer was the
General importer/distributor of PUCH motorcycles in Germany and an experienced organizer of
motorcycle events. As many motorcycle specialists before him, he found BMX extremely
interesting for children and young men and women. The BDVC board of directors members
were:
Kurt Hammer
(president),
Bohdan Zewko
(youth affairs/coaching),
Wolfgang Schaffer
(national trainer),
Rolf Hammer
(coordinator),
Mrs.
Ilse Gneissl
(treasurer&fitness-teacher),
Walter Blum
(General secretary) and
Albert Waldman
(Organizer&race-coordinator) and their official offices were in Frankfurt/M-Germany.
The main goal in the first place was to promote BMX by having demonstrations all over the
country. Since tracks haven't been built yet, Mr. Hammer planned to have an all artificial track
that could be put down and taken away very quickly and leave no mass. To orientate himself,
Mr. Hammer did go to the USA to be informed on racing technical affairs as well on technical
(bicycle) affairs. A very professional press-conference was given sometime November '80.
That should have been the start of it all. Contacts had been made with Gerrit Does and both
parties intended to work together as much as possible.
28 / 39
History 1980
Two more individuals were trying to get BMX going and that resulted in 2 events organized: one
at Bremen (Mr. Teichreber) and one at Magstadt (Mr. Wolfgang Renner) in 1980. Both were in
the bicycle business.
December 16th, the KNWU FSC (BMX Sports Committee) installed. The S.F.N. was now
integrated into the KNWU.
The first ever BMX Sport Committee members KNWU were: chairman Gerrit Does, secretary L
ouis Vrijdag
and members
Jan van de Wiel
,
Harry Brander
,
Henk de Groot
,
Henk van der Kort
,
Gerard Rooyakkers
en
Piet van Someren
. As chairman, Gerrit Does also was member of the KNWU Board of Directors.
December 16th, "Fietscross Magazine" a fact in Holland.
Zuidgroep BV Uitgevers, Best-Holland, represented by Mr. Joep Bartels and Mr. Henk Bruger,
together with the SFN/KNWU representatives,
Louis Vrijdag
and
Gerrit Does
, signed a contract, starting to publish the first official Dutch magazine for BMX called
"FIETSCROSS MAGAZINE" (starting with 12.000 copy's per issue, 6 issues per year). The
contract officially started 1 December 1980.
December 28th, official letter by the KNWU (Royal Dutch Cycling Federation)
29 / 39
History 1980
appointing Gerrit Does as Chairman of the BMX department. December 27th-28th, the 3rd JAG - BMX WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS, Indianapolis - USA
took place.
30 / 39
History 1980
December
28th.
Center
final
decision
with
the
was
present
again
made
arepresentatives
to
meeting
form
the
(first
one
oftoannounced
or
the
in
December
participating
1979)
countries.
was
held
During
at
the
this
Convention
meeting
the a
"International
BMX
Federation",
world
governing
body.
Gerrit
Does
was
asked
to
act
as
temporary
General
Secretary.
Involved
atsuggested
the
time
were
among
others
Ernie
Alexander
(NBA)
and
Joan
P.
DeBoard
(preparing
rules),
Bill
Pippin
(Atterney)
Federation)
became
During
was
formed
the
actual
and
racing
would
become
itIBMF
was
official
early
that
1981. In
the
IBMF
1981
(International
the
official
name
BMX
I.BMX.F
.,
instead
of
IBMF.
More
on
that
in
year
During
this
JAG
BMX
WORLD,
4and
countries
were
represented.
Gerrit
Does
(Holland)
and
e
Esser
(USA)
,b
representatives
non-profit
oth
knew
organisation
the
FIM
of
the
countries
in
setting
present,
of
the
org.)
FIM. start
very
a
World
well
and
Wide
Governing
again
body
to
for
the
BMX,
aGeorg
Tadashi
Inoue
from
should
organisation
BMX must
otherwise. Japan
start
develop
was
organsing real
and
very
not
itself
amuch
into
commercial
World
in
a
favour
world
Championships
of
wide
this
co-ordinated
new
like the
idea
like
JAG
and
the
organization
BMX
supported
FIM
Worlds.
does.
the
A
in
This
democratic
the
setting
was
This
o.k.
of
organized
organisation
so
the
far,
FIM
but
or
Mr.
Tadashi
Inoue
too
publicity
countries
Japanese
also
American
with
stated
only
because
BMX
people
that
2In indeed in
countries
we
Japan
Only
from
should
2office,
Japan
present.
countries,
a try
a
traditional
NBL
have
Japan
ABA
a country
-1981.
working
USA
there
and
and
was
NBA.
and
the
had
together
During
part
USA.
abeen
Worlds
of
That
relationship
the
athat!).
WORLD
should
December
was
For
almost
BMX
be
CHAMPIONSHIP
with
aidea.
28th
Worlds
this
the
an
meeting
main
was
with
very
to
three
the
many
itin
bad
was
Japan
At
the
time,
only
Does
Louis
Vrijdag
which
for
would come
the
came
time
being.
in
together
handy
It
was
some
agreed
time
meetings.
Gerrit
Esser,
were
Does
Tadashi
the
guys
was
Inoue,
asked
that
did
to
speak
act
Does
as
4insult
general
languages,
and
others
secretary
1981
March/April
Pompano
organisation.
Pompano
Beach
at
the
- to
Florida,
NBL
USA
to
1981
finish
prepaire
representatives
all
documents
and
of
officialy
National
tostart
start
BMX
the
aGerrit
new
federations
international
come
in
together
International
BMX
Federation
in
short
the
I.BMX.F.
Organizations
officially
involved
international
level
ending
1980:
the
NBL
/ present.
NBA
Organizations,
Gerrit
(worldwide
call
during
just
it is
the
World
and
motorcycle
at
- - USA
St.
Fietscross
Nederland that
Championship.
-George
Holland
UK
Bicycle
Motocross
Association -one
Great
Britain
Francaise
de
Bicrossing France
Federation
of
Belgium
Bicrossing that
-business
Japan
BMX
Association
April
Bicicross these
to
stated
(NBA
an
Japan
Asociacion
Venezolana
de
-Belgium
Venezuela
Seen here 28th.
December
a copy1980.
of the representation list of persons taking part in the IBMF meeting on
31 / 39
History 1980
Here a report in the NBL Bicycles Today Newspaper on the above mentioned meeting.
32 / 39
History 1980
33 / 39
History 1980
Our trip
Dutch
riders:
toGroot,
theJacqueline
JAG
WORLDS
took
usFrank
from
through
30th.
Participation
by
14
Rene
Wiel,
Jan
de
v.d.
Dungen,
Jelleke
Eric
v.d.
v. Meurs,
de
Boogaard,
Laat,
Rob
Wilco
vanDecember
v.Someren,
Groenendaal
Dijk, Jan24th
Nico
Willem
en
Does,
Laurens
Gotenbos,
Addie
Dingen.
v.d.
Hans
Ven,
ter Mike
Weeme,
v.d.
For of
arrived
out
most
the
safe
people
bike-boxes
and sound
in ourright
group
at our
away
this
hotel
and
trip
were
prepaired
to the
weUSA
were
forwas
able
practise
their
to relax
first.
and from
racing
The flight
our
the
trip.
was
next
Bikes
long,
dayswere
but
to come.
we
taken
The JAG BMX World Championships got underway.
34 / 39
History 1980
35 / 39
History 1980
Facts:
Organizer/promoter: Renny Roker Sanctioning body: the NBL (George E. Esser)
Entries: 2.916 Entry fees; single, open and cruiser classes € 20 (Pre-registr.)
Number of riders: 2.160 Pro class € 50 and Relay race € 100.
Spectators: 10.000 (in 2 days)
Moto's: 384
Pro Purse: $ 10,000
At the time there were many sanctioning bodies. The NBL honored all of them such as UBR,
ABA, NBA, NEBA and NPSA licenses.
JAG BMX event information: Pro-purse $10,000.00; Entry-fees $20.00 per class; There were
approx. 3400 entries.
36 / 39
History 1980
Results:
MXL
SHIMANO
PRO
CLASSIC
Pro
Main
1.
Kevin
McNeal
$(NL)
3,200
2.
Randy
Smithson
1,750
3.
Clint
Miller
1,220
4.
Bob
Woods
980
5.
800
6.
Scott
Clark
720
7.
Eric
Rupe
480
SEMI
5.
6.
7
11-13
10
11
14
1.
2.
3.
&
8.
Toby
Mark
Frank
Anthony
Andres
Todd
Dave
Jeff
Special
Jimmy
Tony
Tim
Eddie
Bob
Richie
Franco
Gary
Timmy
Mike
Kevin
Novice
-Expert
&
Under
13
Over
Byron
1;
2;
Trophy
Handt
Judge
Horne
&
Poulson
Greene Wegener
Henderson
Luke
Turner
Engle
McNeal
Post
king
Anderson
Feret
Open
Judge
Perrino
Soule
K.
Tropy
Open
Trophy
Sewell
Friday
Collins
130
dash
dash
110
Dash
110
350
130
Pro
Throphy
1.
Frank
Post
2.
Harry
Leary
3.
Clint
Miller
4.
Denny
Davidow
5.
Brent
Patterson
6.
Donny
Atherton
7.
Kevin
Ridling
8-10
11-13
6
8
29
30
9
10
Novice
Expert
8.
Missy
Ann
Kim
Julie
Terri
Kathy
Heidi
Margaret
Wendi
Debbie
Dana
Paul
Ian
Chad
Jeffrey
Chase
Lander
Aaron
Steven
Tom
Robbie
Brad
Kamie
Ted
Martial
Bryan
Robert
Troy
Scott
Jimmy
Tony
Special
Powder
Under
Greg
Schroeder
Powder
Kosmola
Baggerly
Goudy
Guilmette
Marie
Dames
Raatz
Santa
Fregoe
O'Neal
Green
Mailloux
van
Platt
Becker
Luke
Mirisola
Pearson
Wormack
DeFreese
Fred
Schachel
Herreweyers
Cargle
Jensen
Bondurant
Edman
Burrows
Feret
Neizer
Shebby
Banks
Chamberland
Schaab
MacPherson
Gustavo
Aristide
Allen
Kalsow
Summers
K.
Powder
Cruiser
Hill
Cruiser
Open
Christopher
der
Collins
Walerius
Puffs
Cruz
Puffs
Wiel
Puffs
7
11
12
13
14
15
16
1.
2.
3.
&
Andrew
Shelby
John
Aljandro
Doug
Jeff
Joe
Ken
Roy
Frank
Harry
Clint
Wally
James
Daryl
Kelly
Anthony
Ron
Jason
Todd
Pete
Dennis
Rob
Roger
Marty
Larry
Toby
Brandt
Amedio
Mike
Vince
Jim
Mario
Richie
Mark
Tim
Dave
Pro
&
Novice
Expert
Under
Over
Stinson
Emerson
Day
Brown
Schlegel
Judge
David
Ward
Trophy
Piersona
Bauer
Miller
Loncarevich
Mayes
Poulson
McDougall
O'Neal
Driscoll
Sharp
Helthouser
Cress
Person
Blaser
Williams
Christensen
Davis
Leary
Weynschenk
Luker
Bravomalo
Asbury
Hochstadter
Post
Sims
Lowe
Anderson
Votta
Hurst
Vasquez
James
Owens
Open
Soule
cruiser
Gilmore
Mathews
Portillo
Hans ter Weeme (NL)
December
1979,
situation
BMX
development
in
Holland.
S.F.N.
organized
England,
organizations
TWEEWIELER
the
Europe
help
and
of
Spain
inthe
-Protec
Holland,
Holland
had
next
-and
Amsterdam
been
Helmets.
sponsors,
Norway
did
15and
founded.
clubs
endof
and
and
their
BMX
affiliated.
in
Very
the
season
three
started
50
important
International
minute
ofwith
to
these
grow
over
AVRO
promotional
countries,
:as
750
Gazelle,
contacts
TV
official
Gold
official
activities
Wrangler,
with
license-holders,
Cup
and
show
were:
registered
Milky
on
RAI
Germany,
Way,
National
28ASCO
BMX
events
Shimano
TV.
France,
were
With
The
Dutch
(Combination
bikes:
others.
number
brand
Red
Nishiki.
Line,
of
BATAVUS
Louis
BMX
DG,
Verwimp/Albert
brands
Webco,
extended
GAZELLE
CW,
Mongoose,
Cooijman).
during
got
involved
this
PK
Then
year.
Ripper
there
Market
well
(SE-Racing)
were
as
leader
a
specialist
theBelgium,
American
was
and
PEUGEOT
in
Laguna
BMX
made
BMX
BMX
and
among
END
OF
YEAR
1980.
PICTURE GALLERY:
37 / 39
History 1980
38 / 39
History 1980
39 / 39