January 07 2019- BMX Rider Leila Walker provides an update to the Perago Trust on her training and competition.
I am writing to thank you for the incredible support I have received during 2018.
This year has been a busy one for me. I have raced internationally twice and received quality BMX coaching with the Matt Cameron Race Academy.
In April, I competed at the New Zealand National Championships in New Plymouth winning both my age class and the 12-14 year girls supernats titles.
I raced at the UCI BMX World Championships in May held in Baku, Azerbaijan. I won all 6 races and retained my World 1 ranking for the sixth consecutive year.
This truly was an amazing opportunity and cultural experience, one I never imagined I would encounter.
Each year I learn and experience so much at the world champs and this gives me the drive and determination to chase my dream and fuel my passion of BMX racing.
Last month, I travelled to Tulsa in Oklahoma, USA to race at the American Grand Nationals (Grands) and Race of Champions (ROC). It was incredible – the largest and most hyped-up BMX event ever. The atmosphere, the event, the people and the racing were extraordinary – a truly mind-blowing experience.
I won all my races and came home with two 1st place trophies over 2-metres tall for winning 13 girls and 13-14 year mixed open class at Grands and a large plague for winning the 13-14 year mixed open class at the ROC.
Last week I trialled in Taupo for the newly established BMX New Zealand Youth Development Squad. There was some exciting and close competitive riding and I won all my races, finishing first qualifier in the 8 rider team.
This is another opportunity to represent New Zealand, gain knowledge and experience travelling as a squad to Australia as an independent athlete.
I have been fortunate to train with the Matt Cameron Race Academy this season and coached by Matt Cameron and his academy coach Jayden Davy.
This coaching has provided a positive challenging environment that has really pushed me to grow my skill level and to have such quality coaching
leading up to major events has been amazing.
Each Monday afternoon during the BMX season I have assisted Sandy Bromwich at the Cambridge BMX Club running the sprocket/beginner rider program. It has been great helping out and I really love seeing the younger riders improve their skills and gain confidence out on the track.
This year I was awarded the ‘Cambridge High School sports Top Achiever’ at Cambridge High School sports awards for my BMX success.
The awesome achievements I have had this year has only been made possible with your support and funding.
I feel extremely privileged and grateful for the Trusts’ support and very appreciative, as it has enabled me to receive quality BMX coaching and assist with international racing.
Once again, thank you for your continued support during an incredible year and can’t wait to see what 2019 brings ☺
Thank you again
Leila Walker