Seoul Korea UCI BMX - Race Report

Oct 10, 2012

Written by Bart de Jong

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Crown Haiti International BMX Competition in Seoul Korea definitely was a stand out race and a memorable event in many areas. The Korean Cycling Federation, sponsors and organizers for this race did an amazing job of hosting an International UCI competition. A handful of the best riders from around the world made their way to Korea and like me it was a first for most. The vibe at the venue was completely different to any other race on the calendar. There was a huge effort fromthe start to treat everyone to a “rockstar” style trip and race event.

Korea currently only hosts one race a year and they go all out! I found out that Seoul has the second largestcity population in the world, one BMX track and about 20 riders. I can see a huge progression for BMX in Korea in the years to come.

The track was certainly like nothing I have ever ridden before, it was concrete start to finish, squared off transitions, tightly spaced jumps and very flat turns which made it very technical and challenging for racing. The aim in Korea is to get more dirt tracks and knowledge to progress the sport and hold a UCI SupercrossWorld Cup event.

During practice we all quickly learned that this was a track with areas where you had to go slower to go faster. Race day was kicked off with a traditional Korean opening ceremony and fireworks. Even throughout racing we were made to feel completely at home with catering and great hospitality.

It was a great feeling to come away from the weekend standing on the top of the podium watching the Southern Cross rise up the flag pole and hear the Australia National Anthem.

Results:
Elite Women: 1st Caroline Buchanan AUS - 2nd Aneta Hladikova CZE - 3rd Stefany Hernandez VEN - 4th Melanie Boudoux FRA - 5th Kharisma Novanda INA - 6th Thongmee Duangkamon THA - 7th Nicha Prasoetsri THA

Elite Men 1st Nic Long/USA - 2nd Edzus Treimanis/LAT - 3rd Rihards Veide/LAT - 4th Martijn Scherpen NED - 5th Martijn Jaspers NED - 6th Maris Strombergs LAT - Joey Bradford USA - 8th Barry Nobles USA

I'm already looking forward to the 2013 Crown Haiti competition. Next stop Fresno California for an American ABA National weekend.

-Caroline Buchanan