USA BMX Grand Nationals Kick Off At Tulsa's Expo Square

Wednesday, thousands of BMX riders from all 50 states and 25 countries are heading to Tulsa's Expo Square for the grand nationals this weekend.

The competitors said there is a lot that happens out on the track. 

“I have to be as smooth as possible and stay flowy. Not choppy and don’t try to mess up my manuals, mess up my jumps, just be nice and smooth. Stay calm. Stay collected," said Eli Staton.

Staton is 11 years old and said BMX is more than pedaling a bike. He said it takes months of training and hard work to get to the grand nationals. 

“This is the mecca of our sport, what’s happening this weekend. So the riders have qualified, they’ve worked hard to get here, they’re ready to go waiting for that Sunday night main event. That’s the dream all year long," said John David.

John David with USA BMX said this is the biggest grand national event the sport has held in 24 years. There are 3,000 racers competing this weekend from across the world and you might recognize some of them. 

“The same participants you saw on NBC in the Olympics. They’re going to be right here participating in Tulsa Oklahoma from across the world both in the male category and the female category. It is truly an opportunity to see the world-class absolute best Olympic athletes the sport has to offer," said David.

Eli is too young for the Olympics, but he has big aspirations for his future. 

“Once you get used to riding it’s like you can’t get rid of it. It’s like once you know how to eat you can’t just leave eating. BMX has always been my passion and I really want to pursue it into making it to the Olympics," said Staton.