Mountain Raiders BMX Club Hosts Major National Competition

Hundreds of BMX riders are set to gather at Lloyd Elsmore Park in east Auckland this Labour Weekend for one of the season’s premier competitions, the BMXNZ North Island Titles. The Mountain Raiders BMX Club, recognized for its dedication and hard work, has earned the prestigious opportunity to host this significant national event.

Over the past decade, the Mountain Raiders club has transformed from its original location at Pigeon Mountain to a newly established, top-tier track built in collaboration with Auckland Council. This facility not only serves as a competitive venue but also as a community hub, maintained by devoted volunteers. During a recent visit to the track, groundsman Chris “Radar” Biddick was seen preparing the park for an expected crowd of up to 3,000 attendees.

Greg Buckley, president of Mountain Raiders BMX Club, expressed pride in the club’s accomplishments. “Hosting the North Island Titles is a recognition of the consistent effort we’ve put in week after week,” he stated. In anticipation of the event, scaffolding grandstands are being erected to accommodate competitors, support teams, and spectators alike.

The BMXNZ North Island Titles will attract riders from all over New Zealand, including participants from Australia and Tahiti. One of the highlights of the event is the Mighty 11s, an esteemed international contest for 11-year-old riders. BMXNZ describes the Mighty 11s as “one of the most iconic events in BMX,” bringing together top talent from both New Zealand and Australia for a historic test match.

Mountain Raiders will have three representatives in the New Zealand Mighty 11s team: Olivia Anderson, Delan Johns, and Ruby Buckley. The trio, who are currently training at Lloyd Elsmore Park, expressed their excitement about representing their country. “We are proud to be part of this team and look forward to the competition,” they shared during a training session on October 19.

The Mighty 11s event is held biannually, with this competition marking the second leg of the 2025 test series, this time hosted in New Zealand. In addition to the Mighty 11s, the BMXNZ North Island Titles will feature riders from various age groups, ranging from eight years old to over 60, all competing for regional ranking plates.

This weekend’s meet is not only a chance for local riders to shine but also serves as a round of the 2025 BMXNZ National Series and a National Qualifying Meeting for the upcoming 2026 National Championships. Buckley highlighted the newly installed rider starter gates, a recent investment of $70,000, as a significant enhancement for the club, made possible through the support of members and local businesses.

As the event approaches, anticipation builds within the BMX community. The Mountain Raiders BMX Club’s commitment to excellence and community spirit is set to shine as they host this major competition, drawing attention from across the region and beyond.