The SeaTac BMX racecourse drew international attention earlier this month as it hosted the national Gold Cup Championship, one of the premier events on the USA BMX tour, the City of SeaTac announced.

The competition brought riders of all ages — from 3 to 80 — to race for regional titles, gain confidence, and celebrate their hard work.

This year’s event also marked the return of the Pro Series to Washington for the first time in more than 20 years.

“The Gold Cup Championship gives riders of all ages and skill levels a chance to compete for regional titles while building confidence and celebrating their hard work,” said Jamie Stenson, SeaTac BMX track operator and board member. “We saw racers from 3 to 80 years old competing which confirms that BMX is truly a sport for everyone, and nobody sits on the bench.”

To qualify for the finals, racers built up points from earlier events in the year, with another opportunity to gain points on the first day of the SeaTac competition before the finale on the second day. The championship was live streamed on FloBikes, allowing fans around the world to watch the action.

The event featured autograph sessions where kids lined up to meet their BMX heroes. Organizers said it was one of the longest pro signing lines of the year.

“For the community, it’s more than just racing, it’s about families coming together, kids making lifelong friends while creating memories that will last a lifetime,” Stenson added. “SeaTac shined as a welcoming destination for world class BMX.”

Local leaders also joined in the festivities, including Councilmembers James Lovell and Joe Vinson, Mayor Mohamed Egal, and Economic Development Manager Aleksandr Yeremeyev. Councilmember Senayet Negusse also attended with her family.

SeaTac was chosen as the host city thanks to recent upgrades to the track and facilities, which had been under review by USA BMX for several years.

Photos courtesy City of SeaTac.