Caroline Buchanan Explains BMX in the Olympics

July 27, 2012, 11:04 amYahoo!7

Gold medal hopeful Caroline Buchanan talks to Banzai about the London Olympics and the rules (and rush) of BMX racing.

Caroline Buchanan Explains BMX in the Olympics
Cycle

What sport will you be competing in at London 2012? Can you sum up your sport in a sentence or two?

I am competing in BMX..fast, furious, extreme and an amazing amount of fun in 40 seconds.

How is a BMX race judged/scored at the Olympics? Is it just the fastest person wins or are there other elements that contribute?

First across the line wins but that is not always the fastest rider because it is bit of a lottery when you add seven other riders, wind, crashes, obstacles and mechanical issues

What is the process/format to determine the winner (heats/semis/finals? etc).

There is a time trial to determine the top 16, then three heats to determine the final of 8.

Most people consider BMX a recreational sport. How long has it been in the Olympics, and how did you get into racing competitively?

This is the second Olympics and I think it is in at least until 2024. I started racing professionally when I was 14 being only now is it starting to create income...its been a long ride!

Are there many BMX competitions held around Australia?

There is national series each year and local clubs events nearly every weekend.

What is the difference between BMX racing and mountain biking?

Mountain biking is a different bike on a downhill course that is rough, rocky and steep. BMX is smooth, fast and with jumps. Both are a huge rush!

Do you need to be very fit to race BMX?

What does a typical training week look like for you leading up to competition? Yes we need to be fit at the elite level...strength, explosive speed and endurance because we back up again quite rapidly. The last two weeks before a big comp we taper but until then it is track work, gym work and pool sessions.

Caroline in action! Photo by Jerry Landrum.


What gear is required to become a BMX racer?

A bike would be handy then helmet, goggles, neck brace, elbow and knee pads, long sleeve shirt, long trousers and competitive attitude.

How would your average Joe get into the sport?

Local clubs normally have "come and try days".. I highly recommend it!

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