A slew of Vernon BMX competitors rode their way to national titles.
The Grand BMX Nationals, held in Chilliwack, saw more than 700 riders attend. They competed in national age groups and overall national championship titles in the cruiser (24-inch wheels) and classic (20-inch) categories.
For the first time in five years, the women's cruiser title came back to Vernon, with Jennifer Bitz capturing the overall win by a mere one point. Bitz won her age group on both bikes, which capped off a successful year on the track.
Shylo Orchard, club president of Vernon BMX, had won the cruiser title four previous times and was excited to see Bitz's win.
"I think it's great the title is back to a Vernon BMX Club member," said Orchard. "Jennifer rocked all her races this season and was rewarded for her hard work. I'm very proud of all our riders who represented our club this year".
Drew Solmes, 15, was tops in his cruiser class and earned the bronze national overall medal while Kevin O鈥橞rien captured both the class and cruiser titles for his age group in the 56-60 Men category. Halle Stocks was the youngest title holder, winning the 11-year-old girl鈥檚 age group and ending up fifth nationally.
The season is finished in Vernon, but the American Grand National is set to run from Nov. 27 to Dec. 1 with over 3,500 racers worldwide. Vernon's Stocks, Bitz, Solmes, O鈥橞rien and track operator Chris Spence will represent the club.
