2024 Mini FATJAM. Doing it for the kids. By BdJ

Apr 14, 2024

Written by Bart de Jong

Read 977 times

The first one took place in 1990 just after the opening of the new dirt spot at the Valkendijk in Aarle-Rixtel. 34 years later and the Sugar Hills Trails are still there, same location and the place of the annual Mini-FATJAM. Although it would have been easy to call it quits after so many editions, it is great to see riders show up to ride dirt for a day. Many of them hardly ever ride dirt. Many of them hardly ever ride. Many of them now show up with their kids to ride. Many people just show up to hang out and have a beer.

The Mini FATJAM isn't a high class competition, it's a gathering of BMX fans or maybe you can better call it a reunion. Thanks to support from companies like TSG and Vans and Paul's Boutique BMX Hardware store

all riders will go home with some sort of prize. Could be a sticker pack, safety gear, shoes, or a T-shirt. The free hamburgers were sponsored by our mother and OJA supplied the toilet. Hours were spent getting the dirt spot ready and promotion was done via the local media, FATBMX.com and the several social media channels. It still is always a question mark who will show up. It strongly depends on the weather for the day as the end of March can give you anything.

The 2024 Mini FATJAM started at 13:30hr and from the get-go that starting hill was packed. Kids, parents and everything in between took turns on the outside line doubles, rollers, smaller doubles and some chose the Killer jump. It killed only a few but also provided flips, 360-s and whips. The rain that fell earlier in the week made the spot next to perfect. No dust and dirt that actually packed and was grippy. By 16:00hr the prize festival started which was the highlight of the day for some.Kids need to be motivated in some way and free stuff is always good, no matter what it is. By 18:00hr that hill was still packed but when the music was unplugged, the hamburgers were gone and most of the riders were exhausted, it was time to wrap things up.

If I had to guess, around 70 riders showed up. I'd say that half of them were younger than 12 years old. To me that's a good sign. If only 10 riders older than 40 would be taking turns, it's time to get worried. With all the young blood riding all afternoon it's time to put that next edition on the calendar already. The Summer edition of the FATJAM will take place on August 31st this year.

BdJ