In this episode of BASIC, we take a high-level look at Pro BMX racing straight from the USA BMX rulebook. We cover what it means to race Pro, including expectations around sportsmanship, conduct, and being a role model, as well as a simple breakdown of Pro, Junior, Vet Pro, and eligibility by age. This is meant to help riders and parents “look behind the curtain” and understand what racing at the Pro level actually involves—even if that goal feels far off right now. We also shift into practical off-season guidance as the holidays approach. I share simple, realistic ways to stay active without overcomplicating training: riding when you can, basic bodyweight movements like push-ups, planks, squats, and lunges, and maintaining a healthy balance with food and rest. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s consistency, staying healthy, and building a foundation so you’re ready when the season ramps back up.

This week I talked about amateur class creation, and move up procedures and how that applies to you and your riders. It's a lengthy topic and it could be a little bit confusing, but there's definitely some highlighted details that are helpful, especially for new riders getting started in the sport. I also talked about the Action Sports Club and sponsorship a little bit and I have included a link here if you want to check that out. It's something I have found personally helpful if you're looking to spend more time racing and at the track and you wonders represent brands that you believe in and trust check that out below. We will be back next week to talk about pros and classification just for the heck of it. https://theactionsportsclub.com/handbook?am_id=adamoravetz548

Almost every year there are changes to the rulebook. This is the lever that helps improve the sport and try different things to make it bother competitive and fun. One of the biggest changes that will impact local races will the changes to the Lane Transfer racing. I look forward to talking more about that on Sunday Night for Live Coaching. Be sure to stay update by checking out the USABMX Website. I'll do my best to keep things updated here. Here are the current rule changes: TRANSPONDERS Beginning with the 2026 season, USA BMX will expand the list of classes requiring transponders at National Series events. Cruiser, Girl Cruiser, and Expert Open classes will now be included in the mandatory transponder categories. LANE SELECT TRANSFER Events utilizing the Lane Selection Transfer system (“Transfer All”) will see adjustments to transfer protocols for classes with 4, 6, or 8 riders. Based on feedback from riders, parents, and volunteers, these classes will transfer fewer riders from the first round as follows: • 4-rider classes: Transfer 1–3 to the main • 6-rider classes: Transfer 2–4 to the main • 8-rider classes: Transfer 3–5 to the main BONUS POINTS Both USA BMX and BMX Canada National Series events will now award bonus points for advancing through additional qualifying rounds (e.g., quarters and semis). These points will also be easier to roll into district totals. Each single-point race will now convert 10% of “district points earned at nationals” into district points—an increase from the previous 5% per single-point race. NAG SCORES COUNTED For riders pursuing a NAG ranking, please note an important update: the National Age Group standings will now be calculated using a rider’s best eight (8) scores, reduced from ten. This adjustment is intended to keep more riders competitive in the chase for a NAG plate heading into Grands. FOREIGN RIDERS Beginning in 2026, all foreign riders (outside the United States and Canada) will be required to compete in the Expert or Pro proficiency levels without exception. Please note that USA BMX reserves the authority to adjust any rider’s proficiency classification at any time.

Amateur Classification, Age Groups and Advancement. Tonight we will continue through the rule book. What it says and how does it apply to you. Listen in live tonight and be a part of the discussion. Tonight at 6pm PST. See you there! https://www.skool.com/live/4dmnvcYbZ9C

In this session we kicked off a new series walking through the USA BMX rulebook together. I showed where to find the new rulebook class inside BASIC Skool, why understanding the rules actually helps you race with more confidence and better strategy, and then we zoomed in on membership—what options exist, which one fits different families, and how all of this ties into becoming part of the BMX community, not just signing a form. We wrapped by talking about being the kind of person who welcomes new riders at the track and how powerful that simple “hey, can I help you get started?” can be. Topics covered in this episode: - New USA BMX Rulebook walkthrough series (how it will work each week) - Where to find the Rulebook class and “Start Here” module inside the BASIC Skool classroom - Why understanding the rules = better race strategy (not just “legal stuff”) - Example: how knowing total points can change how you ride your motos - Overview of sanctioned events and what “sanctioned track” means - Membership basics: why you need a membership to ride practice or race - One-day trial membership – what it includes and when to use it - 60-day trial membership – limitations and when it makes sense - Balance bike annual membership (5 & under, open class, exposure over points) - Inclusion for riders with special needs on balance bikes - Electric stability cycle membership (where it applies and track differences) - Full annual membership – the standard choice for most riders and families - Gold card membership – added benefits for heavy national racers - Secondary sports accident insurance and what it’s there for - Proof of date of birth and keeping your membership current - Why you should carry your membership card (especially at new tracks) - The importance of track staff, USABMX support, and asking for help - Culture piece: being the welcoming person for new families at the gate - Encouragement for Grands week + a reminder to practice gratitude