The KNWU (Dutch National Federation) is very pleased to be able to host this event. 'Assigning this prestigious event to Holland is an enormous boost for BMX in our country. It enables us to increase (media) attention for this new Olympic discipline, which will eventually benefit sport for all. And this will be a huge impulse for children to learn about this spectacular sport.' Getting a big BMX event to Holland took years of preparation. Promoter Eric Kersten (BMX Holland looks back at the whole process with great satisfaction. "Luckily we have been very patient, so that finally, in cooperation with KNWU, CTO Papendal, Hotel and Congress Centre Papendal and STAP, we succeeded by being alert at the exact right moment. Most people know us from cyclo cross events we have organized before, but we believe in the power of BMX and are very glad to be a part of it."
Stella van der Sluis of Hotel and Congress Centre Papendal and member of STAP (Society for
promoting top-class sport in the city of Arnhem) is especially content with the fact that the commitment has been made for three consecutive years, which guarantees continuity. "We are expecting thousands of BMX enthusiasts and families here to experience this great sport." The exact entry fees are not yet decided upon, but Van der Sluis promises they will not be expensive. "It will be an event accessible for everyone.'"On Friday May 27 qualifications will take place. Races are held on Saturday May 28.
After doing a BMX 'zine for ten years (1987 - 1996) FATBMX made it on the internet. The year was 1998. Here to stay.