Patrick and his mother Catherine have been an inspiration to the development of our RIP It NOW Rider Independence Programs at Black Mountain BMX.

 

This is our inspiration. This is Patrick's story.

 

What about the other riders getting too close? What about the helmet being too tight? What about the protective clothing being itchy? What about him not being able to communicate with the instructor or other riders? These were just a few questions that went through my head as I thought about my son riding BMX. My son loves being outside, I knew the dirt would not be a problem, the speed is something he always seeks. My son is now a seven year old boy with Asperger’s and Sensory Processing Disorder who loves riding BMX at Black Mountain Race track.

 

The first night we attended the beginner clinic at Black Mountain changed everything for me. It was like something just clicked for Patrick. The coach addressed the group but made a personal connection with each rider out there. I stood behind the fence and just let Patrick go. I was amazed at my son’s ability to ride up and down the track. Patrick just focused on every word coach was saying. I am thankful for Bob who rented the BMX bike to us that night. Bob talked with me while Patrick was participating in the clinic. I am sure that Bob could see the uneasiness on my face. I explained to Bob that Patrick was only six and at age five he had been diagnosed with Asperger’s and Sensory Processing Disorder. Bob immediately engaged in a supportive and encouraging conversation with me. Bob showed me a YouTube video about some kids with ADHD and how they are able to stay focused when riding BMX. The night continued and my son was not constantly looking to me for approval. I sat back and let Patrick do his own thing. We were at the track for three hours that night. That first visit to the track that night was a life changer.

 

The questions I had at the beginning of the night were based on our daily life. How could my son who struggles with itchy clothing, tight shoes, bright lights, loud noises, crowed places, and social interactions handle all the newness of the experience? Patrick got on the bike and was just filled with a peace and desire to be there and to conquer it.

 

The last six months has included many clinics with Joe and Mike who have been inspiring and successful. The coaches’ personable and scaffolding technique keeps Patrick engaged and successful. The encouraging and structured approach Mike uses with Patrick pushes him to try harder each time. Patrick’s off the track life has changed drastically as well. We use the track experiences in everyday life. Patrick has engaging positive social interactions with other riders every time we are at Black Mountain. Patrick recalls his first race when he fell and was amazed that a rider stopped and helped him up. He hears the encouragement from staff and fellow riders and has even started encouraging others as well. 

 

The BMX experience has given him a sense of accomplishment and belonging that he never felt in soccer, t-ball, swimming or karate. Patrick always struggled with fine motor skills and special recognition which made sports and school work challenging. We have seen improvements in his fine motor skills, attention span, concentration, self-confidence and over all character.

I am grateful that my son has found his sport and BMX family. The staff at Black Mountain has changed Patrick and my life forever.

 

- Patrick’s mother, Catherine -