Pro Rider Spotlights: Top BMX Riders
Celebrating Legendary and Rising Australian BMX Riders
The Australian BMX riders scene has long been a powerhouse in both freestyle and racing disciplines, producing world-class riders who have inspired generations locally and globally. From podium-topping Olympians to underground freestyle icons, Australia’s BMX legends continue to shape the sport’s evolution. In this edition of Pro BMX Riders Spotlights, we’re diving deep into the careers and contributions of some of the most iconic and emerging Australian BMX riders who are making waves in BMX racing and BMX freestyle. Whether you’re a fan, an aspiring rider, or simply love BMX culture, these profiles are sure to inspire.
Caroline Buchanan – BMX Racing Champion and Dual Olympian
When it comes to BMX racing legends, Caroline Buchanan’s name stands tall. Hailing from Canberra, Buchanan is an eight-time world champion across BMX and mountain biking disciplines. Known for her explosive starts and flawless technique, she has been a dominant force on the BMX racing circuit for over a decade.
Career Highlights
- 8x World Champion (BMX & MTB combined)
- Olympic Games competitor (London 2012, Rio 2016)
- 2013 Australian Cyclist of the Year
Buchanan’s BMX journey began at the age of five, and her commitment to athletic excellence is matched only by her advocacy for women in action sports. Her resilience, notably after suffering life-threatening injuries in a vehicle accident in 2017, has made her an icon both on and off the track. Today, she continues to inspire young riders through her Buchanan NextGen program, aimed at supporting junior female cyclists.
Logan Martin – Freestyle BMX’s Olympic Gold Pioneer
Logan Martin, from Logan Reserve, Queensland, etched his name into BMX Riders history books as the first-ever Olympic gold medalist in BMX freestyle, claiming victory at the Tokyo 2020 Games. Martin’s gravity-defying style, technical prowess, and smooth execution make him a standout in park competitions worldwide.
Career Highlights
- Olympic Gold Medalist (Tokyo 2020) – BMX Freestyle
- 2x UCI BMX Freestyle Park World Champion (2017, 2021)
- Multiple X Games Medals
Logan Martin’s dedication is evident even in how he built his own backyard BMX park in 2020 during the COVID-19 lockdowns, ensuring his training never stopped. His innovative combos, like triple tailwhips and 720 bar spins, set him apart as a BMX freestyle pioneer and an ambassador for the sport in Australia.
Sam Willoughby – The People’s Champion of BMX Racing
Adelaide-born Sam Willoughby is a beloved figure in BMX racing — known as “The BMX Bandit” for his speed, heart, and humility. Willoughby dominated international BMX racing circuits in the 2010s, culminating in a silver medal at the London 2012 Olympics.
Career Highlights
- Olympic Silver Medalist (London 2012)
- 2012 UCI BMX World Champion
- 2014 ABA National Champion
Tragically, in 2016, Willoughby sustained a spinal cord injury during training that left him paralysed. His incredible spirit and rehabilitation journey captured global admiration. Today, Sam coaches the USA’s BMX national team, alongside his wife and fellow Olympian, Alise Willoughby. His story is one of resilience, determination, and undying passion for BMX.
Saya Sakakibara – The Rising Star of BMX Racing
Born to a Japanese father and British mother in Sydney, Saya Sakakibara has firmly risen as a dominant force in Australian BMX racing. Known for her explosive sprints, tactical precision, and fearless riding style, Sakakibara has carved her place among the global elite. Her journey — marked by resilience, determination, and a triumphant comeback — now crowns her as Australia’s first Olympic gold medalist in women’s BMX racing.
Career Highlights
- 2024 Paris Olympic Games – Gold Medal
In a historic moment for Australian cycling, Saya Sakakibara claimed gold in Paris, delivering a flawless performance on one of the most challenging Olympic BMX tracks to date. Her victory was a testament to her skill, grit, and years of relentless training. - 2024 UCI BMX World Championships – Silver Medal
Following her Olympic triumph, Sakakibara backed it up with a silver medal at the World Championships in Rock Hill, USA, solidifying her standing among the world’s best. - 2023 UCI BMX World Championships – Bronze Medal
Her podium finish in Glasgow marked her comeback into elite racing after her recovery from a serious injury. - Multiple-time Oceania Champion
Saya continues to dominate the regional BMX circuit, with several Oceania titles to her name. - Tokyo 2020 Olympic Competitor
After a heartbreaking crash and concussion during the semi-finals, Sakakibara’s comeback to Olympic glory in Paris 2024 is one of the most inspiring stories in Australian sport. - 2024 UCI World Cup Series – Multiple Podiums
Throughout the 2024 season, she earned numerous podiums on the international World Cup circuit, consistently showcasing her world-class speed and racecraft.
Saya’s journey — from heartbreak in Tokyo to gold in Paris — has captivated BMX fans and sports enthusiasts worldwide. Beyond the track, she is a leading voice advocating for athlete mental health and greater diversity in sport. She regularly engages with young athletes, especially aspiring BMX racing women, inspiring the next generation to pursue their dreams with courage and resilience.
As the 2025 BMX season kicks off, Saya Sakakibara stands not just as a rising Australian BMX rider — but as a reigning champion and an icon of her sport.
Brandon Loupos – Australian Freestyle Dynamo
Another BMX freestyle force from Down Under is Brandon Loupos from Sydney. Known for his energetic runs, massive tricks, and relentless competition spirit, Loupos has made a name for himself on the international stage.
Career Highlights
- 2019 UCI BMX Freestyle Park World Champion
- Multiple FISE World Series Wins
- X Games Medalist
Loupos is celebrated for his powerhouse tricks like front-flip tailwhips and 1080 spins. His style blends big air with technical combos, making him a crowd favourite. He’s also deeply invested in mentoring younger BMX riders and growing BMX freestyle within Australia.
Honorable Mentions – More Aussie BMX Riders to Watch
While our spotlight focuses on these five incredible talents, Australia’s BMX scene brims with emerging riders and unsung heroes:
- Kye Affoo – A Queensland-based freestyle rider making waves in international park events.
- Anthony Dean – A seasoned BMX racing Olympian known for his explosive gate starts and strong World Cup showings.
- Sarah Walker (New Zealand-based, Aussie circuit regular) – A role model in women’s BMX racing and mental health advocacy.
Why Australian BMX Riders Dominate Globally
Australia’s rich BMX culture stems from several key factors:
- World-Class Facilities – From Logan Martin’s backyard park to international-standard BMX racing tracks in Bathurst and Shepparton.
- Strong Grassroots Programs – Clubs like Castle Hill BMX Club and Nerang BMX Club nurture future talent.
- Supportive Community – BMX Australia and Freestyle BMX Australia provide pathways, funding, and coaching for aspiring riders.
Whether in BMX racing or BMX freestyle, Aussie riders bring a distinctive blend of technical precision, creativity, and fearless commitment that continues to shine on the world stage.
Final Thoughts
The stories of these legendary BMX Riders and rising Australian BMX riders show how passion, perseverance, and innovation fuel success in both BMX racing and freestyle. From Olympic champions to grassroots role models, Australia’s contribution to BMX is undeniable — and the next generation of BMX legends is already emerging.
If you’re as inspired as we are, make sure to follow these riders, support your local BMX club, and maybe even jump on your bike today.