How ABA’s “Race for Life” began

It was the summer of 1980 in the BMX rich state of Michigan. The current

leader in district points was 11 year old BMX’er Todd Kingsbury. Like

many kids his age, Todd lived and breathed BMX 24 hours a day.

however during this summer Todd went from winning his mains to barely

making it out of his motos. Something was wrong.

It wasn’t until a Michigan State Championship race in July that Todd

crashed and had to get his arm checked out. Like most BMX accidents

everything checked out fine, but his arm kept hurting the following week.

after getting bumped at school his arm swelled up to the size of a

grapefruit. The Kingsburys became real concerned and decided it was

time for a thorough examination. Todd then spent 9 days in and out

of the hospital, enduring many tests and exams while at the same time

dreaming of someday becoming a BMX Pro.

Finally, the diagnosis was complete. The doctor explained that Todd

had Leukemia. Todd now faced the biggest race of his life; his race

for life.

In July of 1981, when the ABA staff learned of Todd Kingsburys

diagnosis of leukemia, the “family like” sport of BMX decided to pitch

in and help. 1981 was the first year the AMERICAN BICYCLE

ASSOCIATION began their traditional, “RACE FOR LIFE” series

with all the proceeds going to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

to help find a cure for kids like Todd.

BMX showed that it really cared that year with 130 ABA tracks putting

on a Race for Life raising and amazing $223,000 . Although weakened

by the disease, Todd continued to ride and worked harder than

anyone for Michigan’s “Race for Life”. He was to be the honorary

Race Director for that race and told a reporter, “this might help other

people from getting it.”

Todd died September 13, 1981 and was laid to rest in his Powerlite

Uniform. In his twelve years, Todd touched many parents and racers.

He is remembered in the hearts of all BMX’ers each year, as every

ABA BMX track hold a “Race for Life” in hopes that someday

there will be a cure for Leukemia.

What makes this event so different?

Sanctioned BMX track in the United States.

Unlike all regular sanctioned BMX events, ANYBODY can race in a

Race for Life, without becoming an ABA member.

Net proceeds from these races are sent to the Leukemia and Lymphoma

Society.