The whir of wheels, the crunch of dirt, and the collective gasp of spectators as riders soar through the air—this is the exhilarating world of BMX racing that unfolds regularly at Capital City BMX in Raleigh, North Carolina. Located in Lions Park, this premier racing venue has become more than just a track. It’s a community space where adrenaline, skill, and camaraderie converge in one of the most accessible extreme sports available to all ages.
What makes Capital City BMX special isn’t just the perfectly sculpted jumps or the meticulously maintained racing surface—it’s the inclusive atmosphere where five-year-old novices share the same passion as veteran riders with decades of experience.
As one of North Carolina’s most respected BMX facilities, Capital City has established itself as a cornerstone of both local recreation and competitive racing on the national circuit, offering residents and visitors alike a unique chance to experience the thrill of BMX in a supportive community setting.
History and Achievements of Capital City BMX
Capital City BMX has deep roots in Raleigh‘s sporting landscape, having evolved from humble beginnings to become one of the Southeast’s premier BMX racing destinations. Located at 516 Dennis Avenue within Lions Park, the track has undergone numerous improvements and refinements over the years, each upgrade reflecting the growing popularity of BMX racing in the region.
What started as a grassroots effort by local BMX enthusiasts has flourished into a nationally recognized facility that continues to attract riders from across the country.
The track’s reputation has been cemented through hosting prestigious events that put Raleigh on the map in the BMX world. Capital City BMX has proudly hosted multiple iterations of the USA BMX Tar Heel Nationals, drawing competitors from across the nation to compete on its challenging course.
Additionally, the track has been selected for major regional competitions, including the Redline Cup Finals and East Coast Nationals, bringing economic benefits to the area while showcasing the highest levels of BMX talent. These achievements underscore Capital City BMX’s importance not only as a local recreational facility but also as a significant contributor to the national BMX racing scene.
Track Features and Facilities
Capital City BMX offers riders a professionally designed track that challenges racers of all skill levels. The course features a variety of obstacles, including tabletops, rhythm sections, and berms that test riders’ technical abilities while providing the perfect environment for progression.
The starting hill provides adequate elevation for racers to gather momentum, while the track’s layout offers multiple lines for strategic racing. Perhaps most importantly, the track is meticulously maintained by dedicated volunteers who ensure optimal racing conditions, with special attention paid to the racing surface to strike a balance between speed and safety.
Source: usabmx.com
Beyond the track itself, Capital City BMX provides amenities that enhance the experience for both participants and spectators. Covered staging areas protect riders from the elements while they prepare for races, and spectator viewing areas offer excellent sightlines of the entire course.
The facility maintains rental equipment for newcomers, including bikes and full-face helmets, removing barriers to entry for those wanting to try the sport. Basic concessions are typically available during race events, and the track’s location within Lions Park provides access to additional park amenities, including restrooms and playground facilities, making it an excellent venue for family outings centered around BMX activities.
How to Get Started With BMX in the Capital City
One of the most appealing aspects of Capital City BMX is its accessibility to riders of all ages and skill levels. The track organizes races according to clearly defined age groups—from toddlers on balance bikes under five to grandparents in their senior years—ensuring fair competition for everyone.
Additionally, participants are grouped by skill level (Novice, Intermediate, and Expert), allowing new riders to compete against others with similar experience. This classification system creates a natural progression path as riders develop their skills and confidence on the track, making BMX racing both challenging and rewarding, regardless of where you start.
For newcomers concerned about equipment, Capital City BMX has removed that potential barrier to entry. The track offers rental bikes for just $5 per session, giving new riders a chance to try the sport without significant investment. Full-face helmets—the most important safety equipment—are available to rent at no additional cost.
The track maintains clear guidelines regarding the required safety gear, including long sleeves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. Before committing to membership, prospective riders can participate in a free one-day trial through USA BMX, making that first experience both accessible and affordable. This thoughtful approach to introducing new participants has helped the Capital City BMX community grow consistently over the years.
Membership and Racing Information
Participating in Capital City BMX requires membership with USA BMX, the national sanctioning body for BMX racing. After taking advantage of the free one-day trial membership, riders can purchase annual memberships directly through USA BMX or at the track itself.
These memberships not only provide access to Capital City BMX but also to hundreds of tracks nationwide, making it an excellent value for families who travel or might move during the year. Different membership levels are available to accommodate various needs, from casual riders to serious competitors aiming for national rankings.
The racing season at Capital City BMX typically runs from February or March through mid-December, weather permitting. Regular race nights take place weekly during the season, with registration and practice sessions held beforehand. Special events, including state qualifiers and larger regional races, are scheduled throughout the year and can be found on the track’s Facebook page or website.
For those new to the sport, it’s worth noting that local races typically last just a few hours, making them easy to fit into busy family schedules. Points earned at these races accumulate toward district, state, and national standings for those interested in competitive progression; however, many participants race simply for enjoyment and the exercise benefits.
The Volunteer Community
What many first-time visitors to Capital City BMX find most impressive isn’t just the quality of the facility but the dedicated volunteer workforce that makes everything possible. The track is 100% operated by volunteers, from the board members who handle administrative duties to the track crew that maintains the racing surface.
The 2025 board includes Track Operator Dusty Ming, President Scott Clevenger, and a team of dedicated individuals handling everything from finances to public relations. This volunteer model keeps costs down while fostering a strong sense of ownership and community among participants.
Getting involved as a volunteer at Capital City BMX is both welcomed and encouraged. Parents of riders often start by helping with simple tasks during race nights, such as working the starting gate or assisting with registration. As they become more familiar with operations, many take on increased responsibilities in track maintenance, announcing, or scoring.
The track also appreciates support from local businesses through sponsorships, which help fund improvements and special events. This collaborative approach has created a self-sustaining community where everyone contributes to the facility’s success, making Capital City BMX much more than just a sports venue—it’s a community institution built on shared passion and a spirit of volunteerism.
Capital City BMX serves as an example of what community-driven sports can accomplish. In a world where many activities have become increasingly expensive and exclusive, BMX racing at this Raleigh facility remains refreshingly accessible. From toddlers on balance bikes to grandparents recapturing their youth, from families seeking healthy outdoor activities to competitive athletes chasing national titles—all find their place on this track.
The sport’s inherent inclusivity, combined with Capital City BMX‘s commitment to removing barriers to entry, creates a unique recreational opportunity that truly welcomes everyone.
If you’re a parent looking for a new activity for your energetic child, an adult seeking an exciting fitness alternative, or simply a curious spectator, Capital City BMX invites you to experience the thrill of BMX racing firsthand. Stop by during a practice session to watch the action, bring your bike to try the track during a scheduled open riding time, or sign up for that free one-day trial membership to experience your first race.
The volunteers at Capital City BMX have created something special at Lions Park—a place where community, competition, and camaraderie blend perfectly. The only question remaining is: when will you join the Capital City BMX family?
Sources: Capital City BMX Google My Business Page, visitraleigh.com, Capital City BMX NC Facebook Page, usabmx.com
Header Image Source: visitraleigh.com
