Forget winter and discover new thrills

Champion BMX riders like Lachie Stevens-McNab, 11, will be on hand to help kids who want to give the sport a go.

If you need a way to rip the kids away from computer games and get them out in the fresh air, then give them a go at BMX riding.

Now that the weather is warming up, the Rotorua BMX Club is having an open day on Sunday and is encouraging kids who have never ridden on a BMX track to get along and have a go.

"What makes this a cool sport is that kids can do it with their mates.

"While it is competitive, there is a great camaraderie among the kids and they enjoy riding with each other," said club president Melanie Short.

The Rotorua Club has many world champion riders - Lachie Stevens-McNab, Wyatt Stevens-McNab, Megan Williams and Jeanette Davies, and a "ride by" is planned by them on Sunday.

All ages and skill levels are welcome, "as long as you can balance on a bike, even one without pedals, you can join in the fun," Mrs Short said.

Bikes and helmets are available to borrow - just bring long pants, closed shoes and long sleeves - gloves are good too.

The details
What: BMX Open Day
Where: Rotorua BMX Track, Te Ngae Rd
When: Sunday