The Loop Newspaper - Tehachapi's Online Community News & Entertainment Guide

Local BMX racer Kayden Gonzales has finally been able to return to race events after track closures.

Like so many other events for athletes, BMX tracks have only been allowed to hold practice and clinics the last few months. The California State Games, which is one the largest Olympic style of events for California Youth to compete in, has cancelled many sporting events but did hold the BMX race competition October 16 at Kearney Mesa BMX Track in San Diego.

Kayden competes in the 11-year-old Intermediate Division and proudly represents Liberty Racing.

"Kayden was real nervous since he had not raced since January," said Coach Curtis Nelson. "He has been doing a lot of practice and clinics the last few months to be ready to go."

In the first Qualifying Moto, Gonzales was in second place until they came down the last straight, where he pushed pass for the win and moved on to the Main Moto. In the Main Moto Kayden held nothing back and led the race from the start to earn a Gold California State Games Medal.

On October 30 and 31 Kayden traveled to Lemoore for two days of racing action. Friday's race was the "Bob Warnicke" Scholarship Fundraiser Race. Kayden again won his qualifying Moto and placed first in the Main Moto.

Saturday morning, Metro BMX out of Bakersfield held their Halloween race. Kayden had to battle his way throughout the qualifying Moto against some new competition for the win and moved to the Main Moto.

In the Mains, Kayden fought his way into the first corner but lost his position and came out of the corner in third. Kayden moved into second out of turn No. 2 but could not get past the lead rider from Lancaster. Kayden hopes to get a few more races in before the season ends in December, to earn a higher placement locally for the year.

For more information on Tehachapi BMXers and local track info contact Curtis Nelson at (661) 557-1366.