X-Games Detroit- Part 1, James

James is 19 years old from the metro Detroit area. He has been riding his BMX bike since he was only a boy. His father bought him his first BMX bike when he was 5 years old with the understanding that he would never purchase one with a motor attached. James has been on some local Michigan races but always dreamed of the X-Games. When he heard about Detroit's bid for the X-Games, his dreams began to turn into reality. Although he has plans for college to work in the medical field, his hobby began to become more serious. He began looking at BMX racing daily instead of a weekend affair. He would start off at 7am and ride until noon, then get ready for school. He said he never thought he would be at the level he is at today with his skills. Then,  the city began to go into bankruptcy.  He said he knew that there was a possibility that the games would be held in another city, however, could not fathom the games not being a part of a rebuild of the City of Detroit. The decision was made to declare bankruptcy and the X-Games decided they wanted no part of that. The city of Austin, Texas won the bid. I asked James if he would consider Austin. He said that the reason he ever considered the games was because it would be so close to home. I asked how he felt about his future and he said he was glad to have the inspiration to train and increase his abilities. Something he never would have done had the games not considered Detroit.
James, never quit chasing your dreams. I wish you well.
Marty-