Riders of the storm: Redditch comes together in fundraiser for BMX legend - The Redditch Standard

Riders of the storm: Redditch comes together in fundraiser for BMX legend

Redditch Editorial 2nd Aug, 2019   0

A MAJOR fundraising event is being held in Redditch this Saturday, August 3, for a local man who conquered the world of gravity defying sport – before coming crashing down to earth in a freak accident.

Stephen Murray helped set up the Redditch BMX track – the first in the UK – and went on to win a professional contract in BMX in the United States of America.

There he won Gold at the X-Games and Gold again at the Gravity Games.

He was revered throughout the sport and beyond – until in 2007 fate intervened and left him paralysed after attempting a death defying leap into the unknown.




Now back in the UK and living near Evesham, his former colleagues at Redditch BMX have organised the ‘Stay Strong Summer Jam’ featuring a host of thrills to raise money on his behalf.

“Redditch is the epi-centre of BMX in the UK – the sport really does have its roots right here,” said the 39-year-old father of two, whose heart still beats powerfully for the sport he loves.


“Saturday is all about bringing the community together at the skatepark and BMX track.

“I was injured in a freak accident; my two boys live and breath BMX and I believe you have to live life to the fullest – follow your passions because, my goodness, you could get killed or injured every time you step into a car.”

Stephen’s recovery has been helped by local man Brad Mulholland who has organised this event, while fellow Redditch stalwart Steve Rooke was there with Stephen at the start of BMX in Redditch.

“Stephen and his family came to the inaugural meeting of Redditch BMX at the Town Hall,” said Steve.

“They wanted to get involved. He went from BMX racing to jumps and became a pioneer in the sport.

“We decided to do this event in his honour because he is such an inspiration not only in BMX but in the wider world too.

“It’s long overdue too.

“He is held in such high esteem – his determination to get out of his wheelchair and hug his kids – it’s awe inspiring.”

For a short film on Stephen visit: www.pinkbike.com/video/81095/

Redditch Standard podcast: https://redditchstandard.co.uk/podcasts/

THE Stay Strong Summer Jam opens at 12midday and starts at 1pm.

There’s a prize fund of £500 and it costs £10 to ride, £5 for spectators.

The day will be packed with different competitions for all ages and abilities including Pro and Am contests and lots of prizes.

Redditch BMX track is on Icknield Street Drive almost opposite Halfords HQ.

Reader Travel

Check out all of the latest reader travel offers to get your hands on some free gifts.

Recruitment

Find a career you'll love with our free career finder website.

Business Directory

From plumbers, to restaurants, we can provide you with all the info you need.

Announcements

Weddings, Birthdays, Bereavements, Thank you notices, Marriages and more.