Donny Robinson in Denmark and France
I knew that the last BMX Supercross World Cup was going to be held in Frejus, France October 8-10. I booked my flight, had my travel partner, and entered the race. The plan was to go down to Chula Vista OTC October 1st and prepare for a few days before heading over the pond. I love having everything all planned out.
September 29th I get a call and was asked if I wanted to go to Copenhagen, Denmark on September 30th for the announcement of which city would win the 2016 Olympic Games. I wasn't invited by the Chicago 2016 group that was going over for some reason, instead I was to be brought over by the Danish who had a vested interest in bringing a BMX Racer over. What was happening you ask? Be patient. I was now stressing out because if I accepted the offer, I would now have to spend the entire day packing, forego my trip to Chula Vista and have everything turned upside down that was already planned out. How would I get to France after the Copenhagen event? Would not having track time before the France race affect my performance? After hours of going back and forth with myself, I decided to go to Copenhagen. After all, the trip I made in 2007 to Beijing as part of the Olympic Goodwill Tour was the best thing I've ever done for myself. From that point forward I promised myself that anytime I could go to promote myself, my sponsors and my sport, it would always be a good thing.
So what was happening for BMX Racing? Downtown Copenhagen was the center for all events surrounding the 2016 Olympic bid decision. There were to be a few sports displayed throughout the days, with live music and giant screens that followed the bid city's presentations, TV coverage and the IOC's announcement of the winner. BMX Racing was one of the sport's put on display and the only sport that continued demonstrations throughout this important event. I was being brought in to ride this track with younger amateur riders to show the world more of this sport. You can't imagine how big of a deal this was for BMX Racing. I certainly had no idea it would be like this. The world's tv's were set on this square in Copenhagen when decisions were announced and there were thousands of people in this square checking everything out. Thanks to at&t, my phone was on and recorded some great shots. And yet again, the special Nike shoes I wear for racing got so much attention. These red/white/blue Nike's trip people out everywhere I go and they always ask where they can get them. Be sure to check out all the videos and pictures below.
The night before the 2016 decision I went to dinner with the Chicago bid crew. I had dinner amongst David Robinson, Michael Johnson, Brandi Chastain, Nastia Liukin, Nadia Comeneci, just to name a few, along with maybe my favorite person of all time, Bart Conner! I love hanging out with that guy. Have you ever heard of singer Johnny Vincent? Well, I was sitting by him and Bart and at one point during the dinner, Johnny handed his phone to Bart and Bart proceeded to have a conversation with Mike Ditka! DAAA BEARS!
It was now time to head to Frejus, France, which is my favorite location on earth- so far. This race was more abnormal than usual because the last 3 years I came in to this event in a top 3 ranking. This year, because I missed the first world cup event, I entered this race in 7th. My goal was to reach another podium position for the year-end world cup standings. The UCI's Johan Lindstrom continues to put on better events and this race was no exception. Plus, he's got some other great things in the works that will hopefully elevate the sport even more. The race went pretty good for me. I once again got 2nd. This meant I squeaked by and got 3rd in the Overall BMX World Cup Rankings. In 2006, I got 1st. 2007, I got 2nd. 2008, I got 1st. 2009, I got 3rd. Being as the BMX Supercross Series is quickly becoming the most prestigious on the circuit, I am very happy that I've been so consistent with it over the years. Of course the race to the 2012 Olympics heats up even more next year so I hope to get back on the top of that overall standing. Here's the race, check out that crowd:
After the race, the UCI had their first ever official awards ceremony and party celebrating the 2009 season. Such a good time hanging out with friends outside of the track and recognizing everyone's talents for the year.
This skit has always been one of my favorites and I finally found a perfect time to mimic it while I was at a Danish training center. You may not think it as funny as I do, but being able to make this video made my trip.
GO211 Bike Video- donny breaks world record bench press
Next up is ABA/UCI Florida race next week.
Thanks,
Donny
