The build-up to the 2026 Mini FATJAM had all the right ingredients for a memorable day. In the days leading up to the jam, a serious amount of work went into getting the Sugar Hills Trails in top shape. Lines were dialed, landings perfected, and the entire spot was prepped to welcome riders of all ages and skill levels. With the BBQ lined up, drinks sorted, sound system ready, and support from generous sponsors delivering goodies, it was clear: this was one you didn’t want to miss.
And it didn’t disappoint.
What followed was a day that perfectly captured what FATJAM stands for—BMX, burgers, beers, and buddies. Riders showed up in numbers to session the Sugar Hills Trails, keeping a tradition alive that has been going strong for 36 years. Seeing the spot still being used for what it was built for—good times on BMX bikes—was something special.
The vibe throughout the day was exactly what you’d hope for. Smiles all around, personal challenges being tackled, and riders pushing themselves while being cheered on by others. That’s what makes the Mini FATJAM unique: no pressure, no format—just ride at your own pace, pick your own lines, and enjoy the process. Whether it was first-timers rolling in or experienced riders flowing through the trails, everyone found their place.
A standout this year was the strong presence of young riders. From push bikes to 12”, 14”, 16”, 18”,
Back in 1990 the Sugar Hills came to life. It's also when we started the Mini FATJAM. That's 35 years ago and the annual jam is going stronger than ever. The trails are prepared and offer something for everyone. 5 year olds join the dirt session with the veterans and everyone in between. If you are looking for a challenge, the KILLER JUMP is there. So get loose and send it on that big thing.
This year's edition is special as we are celebrating Paul's Boutique BMX's 30 years anniversary. Good chance we will have some beers and burgers, so join in even if riding dirt is not in the cards this time. The Mini FATJAM is about getting together for a good time anyway. For some that's riding all day, for others it's chilling, shooting the shit and drinking brewski's.
The dirt jam at the Sugar Hills Trails starts at 13:00hr and will end around 18:00hr. and can be found at the Valkendijk in Aarle-Rixtel, Netherlands. Group picture: 15:30hr if you want to be in it. Goodies? Sure. Music? Of course. Extra activities? We will see....
The night will continue at OJA-Aarle-Rixtel for the official Mini FATJAM Afterparty (Schoolstraat 2, Aarle-Rixtel). Free entry, cheap beer. Pretty unique these days.
The 2025 Mini FATJAM is supported by:
The Sugar Hills trails in Aarle-Rixtel have hosted the Mini FATJAM since 1990. The little brother of the FATJAM opens the outdoor season officially. We've had great weather at the end of March multiple times but the 2023 edition had to be completed in the dry periods in the afternoon of 25 March. Luckily the trails can handle some rain. Drainage works as well as the black sand that absorbs the rain well. The jumps made of clay were scraped off a tiny bit which made them rideable within 15 minutes. Not that the little ones cared as they kept on riding also when water was falling out of the sky. If all this sounds dramatic, it wasn't. The EZ-UPs provided shelter and catching up took place in the few moments the rain took care of the dust.
While going through the pictures I noticed the essence of the Mini FATJAM. One photo shows Jari Roggeveen flipping the killer jump. 9-years old local Morris followed him towards the killer but did not dare to jump it. Next photo I see the two of them have a chat next to the KILLER. For the little ones getting to ride with the pros is awesome to see. The pros motivating the younger riders by giving pointers to progress is what makes BMX the best. With Morris being so young that Killer jump sure is intimidating. That ramp is taller than the kid himself and sends you to the moon. Next thing we see is for Morris to head to the Killer at full speed on his 18" bike. Full face on. Body protector strapped tight. With all his might Morris had followed Jari's advice and sent it big on the Killer. He managed to clear the gap and put a big smile on his face. Personal challenges are different for everyone and at the Sugar Hills
After doing a BMX 'zine for ten years (1987 - 1996) FATBMX made it on the internet. The year was 1998. Here to stay.