KV Bike Park breaks ground


Published on Tuesday, June 29, 2010 10:13 PM PDT

Cathy Perfect
Kern Valley Sun

Chris Brayman was burning up his cell phone last Wednesday as he called for volunteers to prepare the KV Bike Park grounds for construction.

“We are moving dirt,” was Brayman’s mantra as dump trucks pulled up to drop their loads of fill dirt, which is being donated by Tony Talbot of Kernville.

(Use arrows above to view more photos)

“I’m excited,” Brayman said. “We have businesses –Sierra Septic Construction, Larsen, Jack Price, Onstott Construction, Keeling Construction, Nagle Earthworks – who have donated their equipment and volunteered their time.”

“We just like to help the community out,” said Gordon Larsen, as he dumped a load of dirt. “That’s why I came out today,” he said.

Eric Bress, a nationally recognized builder of BMX tracks from Denver, Colo., has been tasked with constructing the KV Bike Park. The track will be sanctioned by the American Bicycle Association, which hosts events across the country. The new BMX track will approximately 1,080 feet in length and require approximately 2,000 years of dirt to complete.

Earlier this month, Bress completed a new track in Safford, Ariz. “Construction should take about seven to 10 days to complete,” Brayman said. “Then we have to have everything signed off before we can officially open,” he added. “I have about $5,000 to spend,” Brayman said.

Motocross BMX has been around since the early 1970s, but has only begun to grow in the area significantly in recent years.

BMX started in the early 1970s when children began racing their bicycles on dirt tracks in southern California, drawing inspiration from the motocross superstars of the time. The size and availability of the Schwinn Sting-Ray made it the natural bike of choice, since they were easily customized for better handling and performance.

The 1972 motorcycle racing documentary On Any Sunday is generally credited with inspiring the movement nationally in the US; its opening scene shows kids riding their Schwinn Stingrays off-road.

For the first time, it was featured as an event at the 2008 summer Olympics in Beijing.

Comments

44 comment(s)

    Me wrote on Jul 24, 2010 5:01 PM:

    " I was clearly addressing someone else, KVParent, but I agree that kids shouldn't be forced to write letters supporting the park. You repeatedly say that it won't benefit the majority of local children; the fact that it will benefit ANY local children is a happy side effect. This track is one of the biggest in the country and has regional, national, and international draw. It will bring races, riders & visitors from all over, and a thriving local economy will benefit everyone, including the kids. If you want entertainment that will appeal to all kids, make it happen. "

    kv parent wrote on Jul 21, 2010 9:59 PM:

    " To ME: I am not against the BMX park, nor am I for it. I was simply stating that my child should NOT have to write to the Chamber of Commerce in support of something that will not benefit my child. As for the "negativity" it is just an opinion. As for "understanding the attraction", I do know what the BMX park is, and NOT ALL nor will the majority of kids in the valley benefit from it. I am just stating we should get an "attraction" that will have more kids benefit from it. DEAL WITH IT!!! "

    Me wrote on Jul 21, 2010 10:30 AM:

    " Freedom: I think most people are fine with differing opinions when they are well thought out and presented intelligently. I've read through many of these postings saying "I'm against the bike park" but their supporting comments really just show that they are ambivalent towards it. And that's ok! It is perfectly fine to not have an opinion one way or the other, and it is OK to not comment on every single story. Just because you don't understand the attraction doesn't make it bad. Just because you don't actively support something doesn't mean you have to fight against it. "

    Gail Korner wrote on Jul 17, 2010 6:14 PM:

    " Let's all just be negative and close the whole Valley to tourism, bike riding, rafting, boating and drain the lake. Divert the river, close the campgrounds, close the hiking and offroad trails. What will you complain about then? Let's ban children from having fun here. As adults we should be able to multi-task. We can still fight to keep the school open and provide our kids with recreation. And there are workarounds to getting the other kids who reside out of Kernville to the park. Let's work on that, while we are at it. "

    Freedom of Speech wrote on Jul 14, 2010 8:08 AM:

    " To Taylor Tagger and others- Why if someone says something against what you support, or questions the motives of those in charge of a project, or question where the funding for a project comes from- they are being "negative?" It is healthy to question things and to have disagreements. We don't all have to agree with something- no matter what it is. If people didn't disagree or question things this would be a communist society. So while you may not like the "negative" responses to the BMX park- deal with it. We are. "

    kv parent wrote on Jul 13, 2010 10:46 PM:

    " My child too was forced to agree with the bike park. When my child asked why they had to write in support, they were told the valley needs it and we must show our support. My child was upset by the response. The valley needs entertainment for all, not a select few. I am shocked when you state your opinion that you are accused of being negative. I don't agree with the park, but maybe it will keep a few kids out of trouble, but it won't help as many as most expect it to. "

    Taylor Tagger Not a Negative Nancy. wrote on Jul 13, 2010 7:50 PM:

    " What ever happened to the good ole saying: "If you can't say anything nice, then don't say anything at all. There are to many people in the world that crave negativity. If you don't like the idea, or how it's funded, then fine. But to pick Chris apart and wonder where is income is coming from... That is just the way of thinking I hope my kids never pick up on. I doubt your child was "forced" to agree. I'll be calling the school and investigating that claim. If I am wrong, I will apologize. "

    Kernville parent wrote on Jul 11, 2010 9:06 AM:

    " At Kernville School, my child was forced to write a letter to the Kernville Chamber of Commerce in support of the Kernville BMX park. They could not write against the park, only in favor. That was wrong and un-Constitutional. My child even asked me why they had to write in support when they would never use the park. The park is a good thing for a few. But it should not be hailed as the greatest thing for the valley youth to ever come to this valley. I hope it keeps some kids out of trouble. "

    Not 4 the BMX park wrote on Jul 11, 2010 8:56 AM:

    " I do not support the BMX park. However, if it is funded by donations and other private funds, I could care less. My understanding is it has also been funded by grant money, which means tax dollars. I don't agree with that. However, I would rather tax dollars go to a project like this rather than the EBT cash cards that are given to "the less fortunate." Once that waste of money is ended, then I'll complain about a BMX park. At least you cant buy cigarettes with a BMX park. "

    Taylor Tagger wrote on Jul 7, 2010 3:00 PM:

    " Suspicious: You are rediculous. I am in full support of the elementary school staying open, and even more so in support of the bike park. Reason you make yourself look un-informed number one: I imagine that even if the school closes, does that mean the hundreds of childfren living in Kernville are going to move??? I think not. There will always be a need for the bike park as long as people keep raising their children. I am almost embarassed to be in the same community as some of you screwges. Lets all think b4 we speak. "

    Consitutionalist wrote on Jul 6, 2010 4:01 PM:

    " Rode by the new BMX park with a friend today on our road bikes. The work was progressing very nicley, and a couple of local kids were practising riding the course.
    By the way, a kid can go there anytime and play, and the insurnace covers everyone 24-7.
    As an ex bike racer and promoter, I can't think of a better thing that has been done for our children recently.
    Thanks to the many that helped make this a reality!
    And to the grumpers in Bodfish et. al,, build a park there and compete. "

    Chuck Smith wrote on Jul 6, 2010 2:48 PM:

    " I am a 34-year resident of the Kern Valley and recently retired teacher (so one of the "Old Folks" too). I applaud anything people do for our kids. One thing living in the valley for such a long time has taught ME is that there are MANY people who are out for others. I visited the park and am astounded by the scope of the project. This will be an exciting addition to our tiny, rural community. Way to go to the wonderful folks who do whatever they can to help the youth --- YEA!!!! "

    Me wrote on Jul 6, 2010 8:58 AM:

    " You guys never fail to crack me up. "Hey, that guys shouldn't eat an apple! He should adopt a rescue dog!" As if such things are mutually exclusive. Because goodness knows, you couldn't work on a bike park AND support the elementary school. You wacko conspiracy theorists are just plain never going to be happy, period. Why don't YOU get out there and rally support for the school? Because it's easier to sit behind a keyboard and cast aspersions, that's why. Great job Chris and everyone else who is working so hard to make this dream a reality! "

    Suspicious wrote on Jul 5, 2010 1:00 PM:

    " I am always suspicious of people who claim to want to help the kids! If I know one thing that living in this valley has taught me--everyone is out for themselves. Instead of concentrating on this bike park...fight to keep Kernville Elementary School open, or you will have no local kids using the bike park! Get your priorities straight. "

    Taylor Tagger wrote on Jul 3, 2010 12:34 PM:

    " Some of you people are amazing! This Bike Park is the best thing to happen for the kids up here in a long long time. Im assuming the people arguing against it, do not have any relationship with the children of the valley. They deserve somewhere safe, and "kid friendly" to spend their time. Chris should be considered a hero for these kids and all he's done and is doing for them. Keep up the good work and Thanks to everyone who is in support of making Valley Life a little more bearable for our kids. "

    Realistically sound wrote on Jun 30, 2010 2:55 PM:

    " Mickey Mouse: I think there are a lot of people who came here thinking they could make a living, but found it takes many years and a lot of very hard work. Most of these people came here between 2002-2008 because they heard this valley was a stronghold of conservatives/seniors and there was a lot of grant money available. Most, if not all, have found it has not worked for them. You can thank the "Progressives Community Organizers" and those who rallyed for Obama in the election for that kind of thinking, other peoples money soon runs out! "

    Mickey Mouse wrote on Jun 29, 2010 6:34 AM:

    " If you wanted to live next to Magic Mountain you could have bought a house there. The Valley has charms and recreational opportunities that aren't available in suburbia. I think some of you people might be living in the wrong town. Please check out Anaheim.

    Hello. Lake Isabella already is a water park - a REAL one. "

    Pam Alten wrote on Jun 28, 2010 1:33 PM:

    " Big thanks to all the community members that have contributed or are still putting forth the great effort to support the bike park endeavor! As a mother of two young children and a teacher in our valley I see a need for more recreational and physical outlets for our youth. Sadly, some folks question the process and people involved. Don't get me wrong...I applaud a thoughtful critique backed by true concern & problem solving. However, some of the negative posted comments clearly missed that mark. Be careful before besmirching our neighbors, please. "

    Lisa wrote on Jun 27, 2010 11:38 PM:

    " I am always happy to see things being built for the kids. If they don't have something decent to do with their time, they will do bad. I now wish they would build a water park in Lake Isabella Tank Park. Not everyone rides BMX's. But everyone loves a good spray down in the summer. There's a lake up here so some how we should be able to put that water to good use, rather than sending it to Bakersfield. I am very happy about the BMX park. Who cares why someone is building it. "

    B Likens wrote on Jun 27, 2010 5:30 AM:

    " Why don't we focus on the positive outcome of this endeavor? I find Chris
    to be sincerely interested in the kids
    and he motivates them to be self reliant. He should be applauded for
    his efforts. Those of you who wish to
    be negative, pitch in and help, elevate
    yourselves...seek higher ground. "

    Kimberley Cushman wrote on Jun 26, 2010 10:03 AM:

    " I applaud Chris on all his work toward the Bike park as well as every member of the board! This park offers an excellent addition to our community. The hard work to complete this project deserves praise. Thank you to everyone for your dedication to the completion of this park! "

    RIDE KRV wrote on Jun 26, 2010 10:03 AM:

    " As president of our KV Bike Park Board I would like to make the point that Chris Brayman has made a HUGE personal sacrifice to see this happen and has asked for no compensation.

    I have seen first hand this week that our Valley is full of generous, wonderful and motivated people like Chris and the rest of our board members. I applaud and thank them all for the support!!

    I Invite all Nay-sayers to come see what has been built so far and maybe realize how big this is for the Kids and the Valley. "

    Wendy Cody wrote on Jun 26, 2010 8:46 AM:

    " It is about time! I am very happy to see something actually being done for the young folks! Keep them out of trouble with drugs, etc. hopefully! Way to go, Chris! "

    Editor Disappearing Comments wrote on Jun 25, 2010 6:47 PM:

    " This morning I noticed comments here that were critical of the bike park. Those entries are now GONE and the chain of comments no longer makes sense.

    Editor, are you deleting comments and leaving only those that are pro- bike park?

    Furthermore, there are other letters that have gone from 85+ comments to 8. Would you kindly explain where they went?

    This appears to be a case of the Editor stepping in to protect her friends rather than an Editor who should be promoting critical inquiry and serving the Constitution of the U.S. "

    larry kolb wrote on Jun 25, 2010 12:12 PM:

    " I am so happy i got out of the valley you all are just a bunch of unhappy people and can never be happy for anything. this is a chance to bring many opportunities to the valley and 1000'sf people. But all you can do it bad mouth everyone. Hope you all are happy in you unhappy lives and don't be scared to let everyone know who you are. "

    KVMTBer wrote on Jun 25, 2010 11:14 AM:

    " Please stop with the conspiracy theories and get a life people. All donations and expenses are well accounted for and approved by the board every step of the way. Despite what people think, the bike park is not just Chris Brayman. There is a board full of diverse, passionate, hard working folks behind the scenes helping to make this happen and make our valley a better place. We let Chris Brayman be our front man because he has so much enthusiasm and history for this project.

    Chris Thomas
    (KVMTBer) "

    celia wrote on Jun 25, 2010 8:44 AM:

    " Really people:what is up with all the crazy speculation and gossip? Perhaps you should ride a bike and clear your head.

    Someone mentioned riding on the roads:yikes! Have you ever done that? It's scary how unaware some drivers are. Thank goodness someone is creating a place for kids to ride safely! Umm, hey, can adults ride at the park ? "

    Fly on the Wall wrote on Jun 25, 2010 8:13 AM:

    " I want to know if they have adequate insurance? Someone will get injured and in this society someone will sue and name all parties: The Chamber, The County, and the individual board members.

    Also, I would caution people posting here to be careful of including too much personal information. "

    Jeff Sherman wrote on Jun 24, 2010 9:56 PM:

    " I can not understand why someone would make such negative comments without checking any facts.

    Lets Examiner, you are accusing Chris Brayman of stealing money from a nonprofit. This is a serious charge. Do you have a shread of proof to back up your claim? Of course you don't because it doesn't exist. Chris is not making money on this. State you proof or give your apology!!

    Poor but happy, why would you bring Chris Hoirgan's name into this. He has nothing to do with this project. "

    Editor wrote on Jun 24, 2010 4:44 PM:

    " It was brought to my attention that a person is/was using an identity that was already being used, and has been for quite a while, by another blogger. In order to minimize confusion, the duplicate ID was replaced with 'MYSTERY PERSON' So, whoever was using the duplicate ID, please use another ID under which to post. Thanks. "

    CKV4FUN wrote on Jun 24, 2010 4:40 PM:

    " Just as an FYI someone stole my moniker but in my own defence and Chris' I am the proud financier. I treat Chris just like a husband and I bring home the money so he can build his dream home. I would marry him but he won't say yes. Your mean spirits are not what anyone needs when everyone is giving so much for the betterment of our valley. God bless you anyway. "

    Valerie Cassity wrote on Jun 24, 2010 2:54 PM:

    " While Chris might be a bit abrasive at times, his heart is really in this, and it's a GOOD thing when we can give kids something to do other than stare at a screen or get wasted. Promoting exercise, healthy competition, and getting kids out of the parking lots where they currently ride can only benefit the Kern Valley. I know from personal experience that it sucks to get slammed on these blogs with untruths, and encourage Chris to do what I do and ignore them. Go Chris! "

    KVMTBer wrote on Jun 24, 2010 12:32 PM:

    " Mr. Brayman does not make a dime off this effort, he has devoted his life to making this project a reality working hundreds if not thousands of hours for free. We should all be greatful to Chris and everyone in the entire community who have stepped up to make this happen.

    The chamber has backed this project for the very reason it exists. Many people will be traveling to Kernville to enjoy the park and attend bike races which will only help the local economy. It goes without saying the local economy can always use the help. "

    John Perry wrote on Jun 24, 2010 12:07 PM:

    " I never realized how many petty, unhappy ,little people lived in the Kern Valley.
    The kids have an additional outlet for all their energy and entertainment.
    Quit BI#C##NG and be happy for them or get of your butts and do something constructive.
    Why don't the gutless, chronic, cowardly complainers sign their names? "

    Richard Rowe wrote on Jun 24, 2010 12:03 PM:

    " The KV Bike Park is a GREAT PROJECT for the Kids (of all ages) of the KRV.

    Though I don't always agree with Chris on other things, I fully support his efforts toward this most excellent project.

    I don't think Chris Brayman makes a DIME off it.

    I think I'd know as I'm a KV Bike Park Board Member (as are Paul Ferguson, President; Chris Thomas, Vice-President; Chris Brayman, Treasurer; Marcie Leathers Secretary; Mark Leathers Children's Committee; Scott Alten; John Howells; Rob Kirbach; Anna Leon; Scott Link; Tom Peltier; Richard Rowe; Jeff Sherman & Jay Watson.). "

    Just for fun wrote on Jun 24, 2010 9:18 AM:

    " I think he rents a room from Jill Thurman at Archies Hardware? "

    MYSTERY PERSON wrote on Jun 24, 2010 6:46 AM:

    " I'm wondering how a guy with no job has the time and energy to pump this project so hard. I am wondering how he pays the rent. I am wondering if there has been a proper accounting of all the money he has raised, and I am wondering if he receives a salary for his position on the bike park board. Something doesn't compute. We never heard of this character a year ago, and then he runs for WF Mayor and starts raising money with no visable means of support??? "

    Poor but happy wrote on Jun 24, 2010 12:15 AM:

    " Examiner: You are spot on---and this guy Chris Brayman is a pal of Chris Horgan-----is that surprising? "

    Kernville wrote on Jun 23, 2010 10:19 PM:

    " Nice for the Kernville kids, but who is driving the other local kids to Kernville-- the poor kids in Southlake and Bodfish-- all the way to Kernville after school or during the summer to use this facility?
    It ain't gonna happen. "

    Lets Examiner wrote on Jun 23, 2010 10:15 PM:

    " Does this project really have any other purpose than to make money for Chris Brayman? Do the kids of this valley want or need a so called "bike park?" They can ride their bikes anywhere they want to, and they already do. This is all about Brayman and not at all about our kids -- very few of whom will come to this park. It's time for this young man to seek out some gainful employment. Sorry that he's suckered so many, but ce'est la vie. "

    Richard Rowe wrote on Jun 23, 2010 3:09 PM:

    " The track builder's services are being provided by the National Bike League NOT the American Bicycle Association mentioned in the article.

    The National Bike League is the world's largest non-profit BMX racing organization (Website: nbl.org). "

    Richard Rowe wrote on Jun 23, 2010 1:52 PM:

    " KV Bike Park webpage: kvbikepark.com

    On Facebook, search for K.V. Bike Park

    To contact Chris Brayman by e-mail: christopher@kvbikepark.com

    To mail donations:
    We are a 501c3 non profit, our
    corporation name is "California
    Recreation foundation"
    We are doing business as:
    KV Bike Park
    PO Box 716
    Kernville CA 93238 "

    David Dills wrote on Jun 23, 2010 11:50 AM:

    " Isn't it great to see local companies taking time out to help the youth of the community. I applaud each of you! Chris should be proud of this great addition to the KRV! "

    Bob Walker wrote on Jun 23, 2010 9:41 AM:

    " BMX is as good as it gets for kids. They can go there in their off hours and play and improve skills.
    Thanks to Chris and Jill and many others! "

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