In 2008, another discipline, BMX Racing, was added to the Olympic Program with an event for men and women. This version of the sport was derived from motocross racing – BMX is short for bicycle motocross. These races are mass start sprint races on specially built off-road race tracks, with numerous short climbs and jumps added. Very popular among younger generations, it is also visually appealing on television and both reasons led the IOC and UCI to add it to the Olympic Program.
The men’s event in 2008 was won by Latvian Māris Štrombergs, who was the favorite. He would return in 2012 and defend his title in London. Anne-Caroline Chausson of France won the women’s BMX gold medal.
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