20 years ago, in April, we held the first mini-FAT-JAM. It was a way to get people together to open up the outdoor BMX season by having a session at the Sugar Hills. A few generations later, the idea is still the same. Ride your bike for a day to kick off the new year. Sure, there's a risk to do it this early in the year and it had rained quite a bit during the week, but those who had a positive look on life, the optimists, made their way to Aarle-Rixtel for the 20th Mini-FATJAM. It rained off and on in the morning, but a visit to Paul's Boutique BMX Hardware Store killed some time. As soon as the sun came out, about 15 riders took their shovels and started working on the jumps. Three cans of Monster Energy in the morning will make you move. 30 minutes later the music was cranking and the first laps were made. It was on! The sand part dried up quickly and also the Killer Jump was used as well. The clay on the outside line needed some more time to dry up. Some riders made it through but it did take some extra effort because it was pretty soft.
After doing a BMX 'zine for ten years (1987 - 1996) FATBMX made it on the internet. The year was 1998. Here to stay.