A Broken Neck Can't Stop the 70 Year-Old BMX Racer

BMX is a fast-paced sport. From the time that that gate drops until you cross the finish line, you're always thinking about your next move. As long as I can keep those two wheels on the ground, I'm going to be out there on that track. My name is Kitty Weston-Naur and I am 70 years old. I am the oldest female BMX racer in the United States. I have been involved in the sport of BMX racing as a racer for 30 years now. Now I love challenges and this was just another challenge. When I began racing BMX, there was no women's cruiser class. I worked with our sanctioning bodies and talked about the fact that women want to be a part of this. We now have thousands of and girls who race throughout the country. Here we go, 56 and over women, 70 years young. Miss Kitty Weston-Naur sitting in that three slot more total points. Throughout each year, I will do anywhere from 25 to 30 races and quite often I'm racing much, much younger women. I finished seventh in the world in the 45 and over women's cruiser class. I was the oldest female to participate in the UCI BMX world. It's just unbelievable. This can be a dangerous sport. In 1993, I was involved in an accident where after falling off of my bike, I broke my neck. I was told that I might not be able to walk again, but within six months I was back to racing and I have continued to be involved in the sport. People have asked me how long do I plan to keep racing BMX bikes. I tell people age is nothing but a number and I seriously mean that. Every time I get out on that track, I win and it's not about crossing first, second or third, but it's about having fun. It's about the enjoyment of being with others who really enjoy this sport. I want to continue to enjoy life and this is a part of my life.