Hastings 7-year-old BMX rider’s next challenge is the world champs

Sage Lawrence, 7, is the 2026 BMX National Champion in the 8-year-old girls' category. Photo / Jack Riddell

A 7-year-old Hastings BMX star is riding the bumps to Australia to represent New Zealand.

Sage Lawrence was crowned No 1 in the country in the 8-year-old girls’ category at the BMX National Championships in Te Awamutu last weekend, winning all six of her races.

Riding since she was 2, a fun activity with her family has grown into a passion.

Sage’s father Adam Lawrence said she trains hard at the Hawke’s Bay BMX Club in Havelock North and races with determination.

Adam said she loved the sport for the experiences and community it brings.

“BMX has already shaped her confidence, resilience, and sportsmanship in a male-dominated sport,” he said.

With the win, Sage qualified for her age group at the 2026 BMX World Championships in Brisbane this July.

She was looking forward to winning some more and “just having fun on the track” once in Australia.

Adam said competing across the ditch would give Sage invaluable experience against the world’s best young riders.

The family is fundraising through Givealittle to help cover costs.

“Every contribution, big or small, makes a real difference,” Adam said.

With BMX being an Olympic sport, Sage said she “maybe” wants to represent the country once she is old enough.

Sage is also interested in becoming a graphic designer.

She encouraged any kids interested in BMX to give it a go.

“It’s fun and you’ll love it.”

Jack Riddell is a multimedia journalist with Hawke’s Bay Today and has worked in radio and media in the UK, Germany, and New Zealand.