Team Ace, three BMX riders, flying into the air, Romford

Apr. 17 BMX Takes Off! They fly through the air with the greatest of ease, these magnificent men and their flying machines - except in this case the machines have no wings and two wheels and are usually a strictly earthbound form of transport. But When Team Ace get astride their saddles, you'll believe a bike can fly. BMX shorthand for Bicycle, Motocross, is the latest craze to cross the Atlantic. This action-packed thrill-a-minute sport makes frisbees, skateboards and rollerskates look dulll by comparison. It's a serious sport which is gaining momentum fast. Over here it already has its own official organisation, UKBMX, its own magazine and a growing number of race centres. Its appeal is mainly to youngsters, and races are organised in age groups from 5 to 6, and classes for 17 year olds and over. Racing on purpose-built specially strengthened bikes which can cost anything between 75 to 300, the one drawback for parents of keen kids, the BMX riders zoom over ramps, up slopes and often leap high into the air. Speeds of up to 40mph can be reached. But despite the thrills and occasional spills, rules are strict and organisers stress safety. Helmets and knee and elbow pads must be worn. Team Ace, three high-flying lads, are Britain's number one team at present, taking part in two weeks of races, demonstrations and promotions. In America the sport is already big business with professional riders earning thousands of dollars. Managed by Richard Barrington, Team Ace includes 16 year old Pete Maddlaton, known as Wild Man, thought by many to be the best BMX rider in Britain. These spectacular shots were taken recently when Team Ace were practising at Romford Car Drome for their forthcoming trip across the Atlantic

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