Grant Awarded by Mizuno Sports Promotion Foundation

The presentation ceremony took place on May 25, where the grant was awarded by Mr. Hideto Mizuno, Vice Chairman of the foundation, to Mr. Koji Watanabe, Representative Director of the Japan BMX Federation.

The 2026 grant from the Mizuno Sports Promotion Foundation has been awarded to the Japan BMX Federation. This grant continues support provided since fiscal 2023. This year, the federation has been awarded 1 million yen for "Promotion of National and Lifelong Sports" and 500,000 yen for "Junior Athlete Development." The federation will effectively utilize this grant to promote BMX racing as a lifelong sport, expand the base of competitors and enthusiasts, and actively foster junior athletes aiming to become future top athletes.

What is BMX Racing? BMX originated in the United States in the 1970s, when children mimicked motocross motorcycles. It has spread globally due to its dynamic nature, with up to eight riders starting simultaneously on a 300 to 450-meter course, competing for finishing order. Its free-spirited characteristics also led to the birth of a derivative sport called Freestyle. BMX racing was adopted as an official event in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and has become a popular sport worldwide. The Japan BMX Federation was established in 1984 and is an organization actively hosting BMX racing competitions and conducting promotional activities.