New Track Director for Livermore BMX

8:29 pm PST, Dec 29, Staci Bettencourt, California

11:23 pm PST, Dec 5, Rick Pettigrew, California

10:44 pm PST, Nov 29, NATHAN MELLONE, California

5:20 pm PST, Nov 28, Jay Gundzik, California

1:39 pm PST, Nov 27, Name not displayed, California
Shane has done alot and I thank him. I just think Nick is more into it and could help out the track.

Nick is a awesome World level rider. He is so deticated and could help the track SOO much.

10:38 am PST, Nov 25, Jill McGuire, Maryland

9:28 am PST, Nov 25, Kim Storms, California
With the economy as it is, this sport is in dire need of individuals who will work there ass off to ensure that the tracks do not close. Nick Valencia is this type person. He will do everything within his power to make sure that the kids have a safe and descent track(s) to ride at and to perfect their skills.

10:19 pm PST, Nov 22, Carlos Crenshaw, California

9:59 am PST, Nov 21, Tammy Mccullough, California

9:41 am PST, Nov 21, Todd Koep, California

3:53 pm PST, Nov 20, Name not displayed, California
Two races a day is too much and we need a more regular season with State races and National races. One or two races a week or One race with a weekly practice should be fine.

3:42 pm PST, Nov 20, Name not displayed, California
The tracks in desperate need of a new renewed director with fresh ideas and drive to execute those ideas.

Nick is NOR*CAL bmx. Nothing BMX related goes on without him supporting or leading it. Make the change and watch the man work his magic.

12:03 pm PST, Nov 20, Jayson Filingeri, California
The track is in poor shape and has the potential of being the best track in the area.

Nick's whole life is about bmx, and if anyone can run a program and make sure the riders are happy it is him.

11:54 am PST, Nov 20, Richard Ramsey, California

2:48 pm PST, Nov 19, Karin Slack, Colorado
Nick is a postive role model and having him run the Livermore track would be the best move ever

2:33 pm PST, Nov 19, Name not displayed, California
I think Nick will do a great job operating the track and keep BMX a positive sport for our community.

10:39 am PST, Nov 19, Maximillan Gardner, California
I simply believe as our sport elevates in popularity, we need a new Track Operator and support team that will help push the development, excitment, etc...of our sport in this area. I would like to see our tracks ran by people who have the time to give 100% effort back into the tracks and its riders. Both tracks need alot of maintenance and need an actual crew that is willing to get out to Livermore/San Ramon on a weekly, and/or daily basis and take care or our tracks. The Huntoons did a good job for years but it is time to pass the torch to others who can and will follow through on dreams to make them a reality asap!

Nick is a very Humble and focused young man. I am all for any person, young or old, who is willing to take risks, step up to the plate, and have the want and will to succeed even when it looks as if he/she may fail. Mr. Valencia is a well liked rider who is looked up to and admired by many kids and parents in our area. He has been in/around bmx for many years, is not only a racer but is a Pro Freestyle rider too. Because of Nick, many freestyle riders who would never have touched a bmx track, have come out and tested their skills on the said bmx track and fell in love with the sport that we have all have found a passion for. I plan to sponsor Nick and the track with apparel and will backup that man when he wants to reach out and follow any dream he has that he needs help with. Please let Nick Valencia have a go at becoming the new T.O. for the Livermore/San Ramon Bmx Tracks, he is not alone and has a support team that equals his experience, passion, skill, and drive to make this change a success. Thank you for your time, patience and understanding. Maximillan M. Gardner

9:18 am PST, Nov 19, Marilyn Slack, California

8:20 am PST, Nov 19, Mickey Fox sr, California
i think that nick would be great at running the track. the track would be open alot more for the bmx riders and give them a good place to learn with nick at the helm. nick would play a positive role in the running and up keep of the track.

7:59 pm PST, Nov 18, Cody Wilson, California
The track need to operate year round- Huntoons are not doing this and are not part of the NBL State series.

Nick has a good history in BMX and will make a great director for the livermore track bringing them back in line with the NBL State program and bring large scale races to the city

7:25 pm PST, Nov 18, Derek Toso, Minnesota
It is not right that the track director is not there when the kids are. And there should be a good track to race on and not a crapy track and there should be racing every week and not two times a month.B

Because the would be racing every week and the track would be a whole lot better and nicer then the one there is now.

7:23 pm PST, Nov 18, Dave Pawlowski, New Jersey
nick valencia would be a great track director. The backbone of this sport is the fact that it is run by people with a real passion for it. Nick is one of those people. When something is done, purelly for the love of it, the quality is always better. A better quality track will be beneficial for the community as a whole, not just the current racers.

4:15 pm PST, Nov 18, Diana Hauck, California
I've known Nick for numerous years and I feel he is very knowledgable in the BMX industry, and is very personable and if there is something to be done Nick will accomplish the task. If you give him a chance he will turn that track around and make it profitable.

4:13 pm PST, Nov 18, Name not displayed, California

1:54 pm PST, Nov 18, ANN KOEP, California
BMX is his life he will make the perfect director,he knows alot about the track .I know he has alot to offer young and old.

10:28 am PST, Nov 18, Jon Anderson, California
Running a team and a bmx company in norcal I hear the frustration that the people that race in livermore have all the time. The park and the track has so much potential that is untapped

Nick has a passion for the sport unlike anyone!

9:09 am PST, Nov 18, Name not displayed, Washington
His negativity is shown at the track and is hurting his rider base, when riders do come along he very easily steers them to other tracks if not other sports.

Nick Valencia is easily one of the nicest guys in BMX. He looks somewhat intimidating, but he has the biggest heart for the sport and for the kids which is what this sport is about. Nick rides and is in 'the know' of bmx and the style of the tracks for the ABA I believe he can bring much more to this sport and the Livermore Track than anyone could imagine.

8:38 am PST, Nov 18, Jeffrey BENOIT, California
I cannot express enough appreciation for what Shane and Karen have done for my son by providing a place locally for him to race. However, I do believe a new direction is needed for all the riders who participate in the Livermore and San Ramon programs. There comes a time when we have to change or change will be thrust upon us. That time has come. Whether it is through a new track operator, or with the current operator, the status quo is not working for the collective BMX body. As an example: the Prundale program is a world-class operation that is producing riders who can compete anywhere at an extremely high level. Our local riders deserve the same opportunity to have the best program possible so they may develop into the same caliber riders. Not to mention that Prundale consistently attracts national events and state finals, which again gives their local riders a chance to experience, on a local level, higher competition in their own backyard. Something that has been missing at Livermore since 2005! When a professional sports team wants to attract new fans and new excitement in the community for a sport, they petition for a new facility that is state of the art to appeal to the masses. A new track that is designed to today’s standards is the first step in making that happen. Secondly, we need an operator who is committed to the program and improvement of all its members by scheduling races that are mindful of state, regional and national events, which will provide its riders with an opportunity to compete at a higher level without missing local programs such as LEAP. Lastly, with BMX now on the world’s stage with the addition of the Olympics, it’s imperative to capture the momentum that is currently present. Without the before mentioned steps in place to improve the current program, Livermore and its riders will be missing out on a great opportunity to improve and be known throughout the state of California, while riders who compete at tracks like Prundale and Fresno continue to push past us in skill and ability because they have the best resources available to them to develop as riders and racers. We are not asking for much: a new track and a consideration to larger events are tangible suggestions that do not require a lot of effort, just a person or persons with the passion, consideration and drive to make it happen.

Nick has the passion to make it happen.

8:56 pm PST, Nov 17, Gabriel Veliz, California
BMX racing ang trick performing are synonymous to Nick Valencia. His dedication to fans friends and family have placed Nick in the kids hearts from all walks of life. his BMX skill, businessman, and human being make him and over all rounded person to fulfill the requirements as the director of the new track director for livermore BMX.

8:21 pm PST, Nov 17, Tony Alexander, Arizona
Nick Valencia is a class act and will get the track online properly. HE GETS THE JOB DONE! Chocolate "Nick for Track Director" Thunder

6:27 pm PST, Nov 17, Dani Blackmore, Arizona
Nick Valencia Is The Sweetest And Funnest Guy Ever!

5:59 pm PST, Nov 17, Justin Duchscher, California
i dont think that the huntoons are a good track director sure he's positive but he has no real good idea of how to run a track he's messed up on alot of tracks and have wrecked chances of bmx in some cities

he is a good guy who knows how to understand everyones point of view i have been with him at races and he is alweays filled with great ideas and sure he may be a little young but he needs to be given a fair shot at it im positive he will do a way better job

3:56 pm PST, Nov 17, Austen Lee, California
Nick Valencia is a great guy and he has the desire and passion to bring livermore valley bmx back to the track it use to be. He has BMX as his best interest 24/7.

1:56 pm PST, Nov 17, Mary Gonsalves, California
The track is not friendly place to ride. My children are so very disappinted

I believe that Nick Valencia is truely an inspiration to the youth that surrounds him. He lives and breathes BMX racing. I have known Nickolas his entire life, from the time of his youth, he has been an over achiever. Nick was an employee of our Plumbing Co. and I can honestly say he is the was always on time and always gives an 150%. He is what the Livermore track is lacking. He has dreams and goals in life. and I truely support him. I believe he will achieve his dream of winning the GOLD MEDAL for United States. Bring him to the Livermore Track you will not be disappointed.

11:10 am PST, Nov 17, Cathy Alvarez, California
I believe Nick Valencia would be the perfect person to be the track director for BMX. Nick loves the sport and lives and breathes it. He sets a good example to other young adults and small children alike (his niece and nephews have taken up the sport). Nick is well aware of the fun and dedication it takes to compete and could show many other riders the importance of being a team player. This is another sport that will keep youth off the streets and give them something positive to do with their life. Nick would be a great leader and at the same time keep the riders safety up front.

10:42 am PST, Nov 17, Gavin Lubbe, California
Nick for TD!

10:03 am PST, Nov 17, Richard Clark, California
Please add your comments positive or negative regarding how the Livermore track is being run by the Huntoons.

Please tell us why you believe that NICK VALENCIA would be a good track director for LARPD Livermore BMX.

8:53 am PST, Nov 17, Monica Ramirez, California
Nick is a fun loving person.. He works well with other and would the tract justest.. He love bmx. It is his world.. He is very dedicated to riding..and loves to help others.. I think he would be a great Director

7:59 am PST, Nov 17, Dragan Dzapo, California
The current TO do not empahaize other programs available thru the NBL program such as a state, regional or natainal series which in turn brings tax dollars to the city by having such events. When people come to these events, they spend money which in turn goes to the city. We need a local level track that is run on a daily level so that we can be proud of our riders when they compete at other venues. My son has to go to other tracks in order to be competitve since this track is only open (racing) 6 months out of the year. The schedule always conflicts with other events that the NBL has.

Nick is the ideal peson for this job due to his past achievements such as going to the schools nad having a free BMX demonstration proving that having fun is better than doing drugs. He has the drive to keep up with what the young people want and always listens.

7:34 am PST, Nov 17, Joe GONSALVES, California
Mr Nick Valencia has been a true role model for this sport.He knows alot of people that have been in this Business for years.His caracter goes far beyond a leader and is a mentor to all who know him Nivk loves BMX with a passion.

6:36 am PST, Nov 17, Eleanor Gonsalves, California
I don't know how the track is run. I know Nick will be a great director he is dedicated to this BMX sport. I feel he has the leadership and the goal to teach alog the way, and he shall be a great director,and he is a great role model for young and new riders.I wish you all luck Anutie Eleanor

10:20 pm PST, Nov 16, Sweet Valencia, California
I dont know how the Livermore track is run but I am Nicks Mom and could say with confidence that he is truly dedicated to this sport. He has a big heart and is willing to help anyone achieve their goals to include myself. He has spent alot of time helping our Santa Clara Track with fundraisers and other events, At one point he even dismantled his own trophies to make winning trophies for a special event at the track. His accomplishments in this sport speak for themselves to include making it to the Worlds and placing 8th. He has great ideas for success and financial planning which would be a great asset to this track. When considering a new director consider the character that comes with it.

10:20 pm PST, Nov 16, Sweet Valencia, California
I dont know how the Livermore track is run but I am Nicks Mom and could say with confidence that he is truly dedicated to this sport. He has a big heart and is willing to help anyone achieve their goals to include myself. He has spent alot of time helping our Santa Clara Track with fundraisers and other events, At one point he even dismantled his own trophies to make winning trophies for a special event at the track. His accomplishments in this sport speak for themselves to include making it to the Worlds and placing 8th. He has great ideas for success and financial planning which would be a great asset to this track. When considering a new director consider the character that comes with it.

8:15 pm PST, Nov 16, Cheryl Ebbert, California
The Huntoons have not looked out for the Livermore BMX Community due to the running of poor racing events. They have not been abiding by the NBL rules and do not support other local programs, state & regional events.

Nick Valencia is an adult rider that cares about the sport of BMX and is qualified to run a successful program. He has the passion to help young and teen riders get into and remain active in BMX racing.

2:06 pm PST, Nov 16, CJ Bunch, Arizona
nick will be a great track director and will keep riders comming in and help create more great riders out of california i say that because he has helped me so much in my career

1:17 am PST, Nov 16, Alan Hudson, Arizona
Nick is completely and utterly dedicated to furthering the program that he too participates. I feel that his leadership and progressive thinking will only benefit all those who interact with any endeavors he applies himself toward. And he says yee a lot.

10:13 pm PST, Nov 15, Kenny Lee, California
Nick is a well experience BMXer and he knows the direction the sport is going in. He knows the riders, the sanctions, and the industry better than anyone.

Nick is a great role model for other riders. He knows a lot about the industry and the inner workings and how to make anything in BMX a success. He is very dedicated and has a passion for the sport.

9:57 pm PST, Nov 15, Edward Burgueno, California

6:30 pm PST, Nov 15, Stacy Brookins, California

2:44 pm PST, Nov 15, Sean McHenry, California

2:23 pm PST, Nov 15, Ian Sorm, Ohio
I believe Nick can bring this track back and help it grow. Nick is a well rounded riders and knows more about our sport then many. He is capable to bringing this track back and turning it into a great facility. His experience and determination is unrivaled. I think he will show great representation of our sport and possibly bring in some help. This would be a wise choice and a great factor on this tracks future as possibly being successful! Plain and simple Nick Valencia would be an asset to the Nor Cal NBL racers and the track.

1:28 pm PST, Nov 15, Josh Oie, California
Having Nick as the new track operator is 100% positive in many ways. He's a riders rider and just not in it for himself, I know he'll do whats right for the riders and the community as well. I've never liked seeing such a positive group of riders go downhill because of there local track and the people who run it. When people say the huntoons arent into it anymore than why is he still the operator? we need someone that will dedicate and make things happen with no negative vibe... The area has so much potential in there riders all we need is the tracks to get them to the level they need to be at...

12:54 pm PST, Nov 15, Lisa Masterson, California
I have been racing bmx for over 20 years and have the pleasure of traveling all over the state and nation to compete on many tracks. Livermores facility is in need of change. To be competitive in this sport you need time racing on the most competitive of tracks. Currently livermore bmx does not offer you this. With the limited amount of race days available and the lack of up keep on the facility it forces riders to travel to other tracks to find the conditions that are optimal for improvement. With the right leadership livermore bmx can become one of California's premier locations and draw more riders in. Bmx keeps kids off the streets and out of trouble and with the right changes livermore bmx will have the opportunity to provide this.

Nick Valencia is truely dedicated to the sport of bmx. He has experience and talent that would benefit not only Livermore Bmx, but any facility in which he is involved. Understanding that this is a family orientated sport and the necessary need to have a environment supportive of this is something that Nick is a firm believer of. What he can bring to Livermore Bmx is many of the things it is currently lacking. I feel that Nick Valencia would be an excellent choice to be the new track director and cannot think of anyone else who would be a better choice.

9:59 am PST, Nov 15, Geoff Willis, California
I'm old school...and I watched Shane winning 16x at Prairie City BMX in the 80's. Trust me, he was into BMX back then. Times change and people change. The 16x Shane wouldn't be okay with rocks on the track and jumps melted down from the rain- he'd be out there putting in the effort. I don't see that in him now. Racing BMX teaches you about life- how to trust yourself, work hard, stay focused, never give up, and it's addictive- but so are video games, look around and you'll see all the couch potato kids that prove it. To keep BMX strong, what's needed more than anything is a 1) good track, with 2)people who really care about the sport, and 3) a race schedule that lets them race often. Think about it...The USA isn't somehow entitled to be the world's strongest country forever. Read about job layoffs lately? Every one of us is competing globally now, and the competition for just about everything is fierce. This is the world our kids are growing up in. We owe it to them to prepare them for the future, with sports facilities and programs which are the best in the world- where they can learn and grow, so they can take on the challenges of the 21st century. We've all got a job to do- BMX'ers: set your goals and work hard, City Staff- Give the BMX community a world class track and BMX program. This is our goal. Don't give up. Riders ready? Watch the lights...

Nick is 100% bmx, it's in his bones. It's obvious how important BMX is to him, and how much he cares about sharing the sport with everybody he meets. I've seen him sweeping the track, dropping gates, and coaching riders (including me) on how to be the best. To achieve great things you only need 2 things: 1) a clear goal, and 2) people who care. Nick's dedication is unquestionable, and the goal is to have the best possible BMX track and BMX racing program. We're all going to help Nick, and we've got a lot of work to do, drop the gate and let's go!

7:53 am PST, Nov 15, Jerott King, California
Shane does not put the effort into maintaining and putting on races as he says he does.

Nick is much more dedicated to BMX racing than Shane. He would put much more effort into maintaining the track and orgonizing great events. SHane has too much on his hands to devote the necissary time to the BMX track

7:14 am PST, Nov 15, Adam Berkley, Illinois

7:09 am PST, Nov 15, James Reed, Florida

12:38 am PST, Nov 15, Michael Brown, California
THIS TRACK NEEDS HELP WITH A POSITIVE PERSON SO I BELIEVE THIS WILL HELP

NICK IS BMX ALL DAY LONG AND CARES ABOUT THIS SPORT MORE THEN HE KNOWS THANKS MICHAEL

12:34 am PST, Nov 15, Name not displayed, Washington
Nick would be an awesome TO because his best interest is having fun he doesn't want any bad politics. Nick is a well respected rider all over the world. He lives BMX

9:00 pm PST, Nov 14, Robert Riofrio, California
I have been racing over 20 years and currently hold the California #1 plate in my class. Throughout those 20 years of traveling all over the United States for local, state, regional national and world events I have never seen such a conflicting schedule as the Livermore program. Although my sponsors and myself would be stoked to go to Livermore for a race, I will be unable to because of all their conflicting dates. Not only with their sanction but the competing sanction as well. I do not understand how a local program can support a local program, local riders while conflicting with so many other races. Riders need to grow and learn to become safe fast racers and with the current Livermore track condition, this can not be possible.

I have know Nick Valencia for acouple years. I have traveled with him to local, state and national events including this years national Championships where he competed at the highest level possible. Last year I also had the opportunity to watch Nick make the finals at the World Championships in Victoria, Canada. A true Team USA member. I respect him as a complete racer and soul rider. As a professional I have witnessed Nick's amazing communication skills and conflict resolution skills with parents, track directors and fellow riders. He has always put safety and program first.

5:53 pm PST, Nov 14, Jeff Nesvig, California
Nick loves the sport and has great knowledge of the sport,no doubt he's your man.

5:23 pm PST, Nov 14, Scott Choisser, California
We do not ride at livermore bmx due to the upkeep of the track and not being a good enviroment to ride. We ride all over northern california as well as the United States and Canada.The facilities have great potential to be a track that people from all over caome and ride,It just needs a reason for people to want to come. This is not offered by the current track operators.

Nick is dedicated to the sport of and the local community.He will strive to keep the track and areas around the facilities in tip top shape.This will bring new riders into the sport by having a friendly safe enviroment for them to ride as well as bring back the riders outside the area back to livermore bmx.

5:21 pm PST, Nov 14, Henry Sarria, California
I've known Shane for a long time, he was an awesome BMX racer & is a good person. As of lately Shane's interests have led away from BMX & because of this maybe it is time for somebody to step in to help the program Shane started, by taking over the reins. BMX is a program that thrives on attendance & participation, something that has been lacking inm the Livermore BMX program for a while. Somehow it has managed to become an isolated enclave in a sport where isolation is certain death. Shane has done a lot for BMX, but there comes a time when a person can do no more & it is my humble opinion that Shane has reached that point. Shane will always be considered a friend & a fellow BMX racer, but if he is not promoting the sport by participating in state programs that would bring people up to race the track, then he needs to step aside & let those that'll help the program move in.

Nick is a serious racer, he lives, breathes BMX and is a fantastic person. His dedication & enthusiasm for the sport cannot be challenged or questioned. He truly believes in furthering the sport of BMX in a selfless way & will do whatever it takes to make a program run. His experiences on & off the track make him more than qualified for the position of track director. I can't think of an individual that gives as much to the sport as Nick does in terms of direction & good intent. I wish more could be said, but his BMX credentials speak for themselves.

4:59 pm PST, Nov 14, Robert Nixon, California
I've known Shane Huntoon for many years back in the day when we raced each together. I bet that Nick Valencia can doing be a new track director for Livermore BMX, yeah!

4:52 pm PST, Nov 14, Brad Lovell, California
track and program suck. huntoons arent dedicated anymore

nicks a badass.

4:07 pm PST, Nov 14, Halsey Davis, California

3:49 pm PST, Nov 14, Name not displayed, California
Nick would run a great BMX program

3:47 pm PST, Nov 14, Phill Smith, California

9:02 am PST, Nov 14, Alicia Mena, Arizona
Nick Valenica has participated in BMX since he was a teenager. He loves BMX and would be an asset to the track.

6:57 pm PST, Nov 13, Debbie Lovell, California
The Huntoon are becoming increasingly difficult to work with. They would be perfect track operators if they had a rider base of kids that ride after school and go to a little local race on a Saturday once in a while to earn a plastic trophy. BMX is 'life' for many, many of our local riders. Therefore, the track directors do not even come reasonably close to meeting the needs of their customer base. They must be replaced as soon as possible. Thru public tantrums, they have completely alienated us from the state NBL officials. They literally have BMX bikes rotting in their garage ... they haven't ridden them in years! Their current passion is CycloCross. Please allow them to run CycloCross and remove them from BMX.

Nick Valencia has graciously stepped up to lead the program after the Huntoons have called for "someone to step up". Nick is a current BMX Expert rider. BMX is his life as he is a BMX Park Pro (Dew Tour, etc.) He has a wealth of experience and a passion for the sport. He will work with our riders to further advance them so they can compete better on the State, Regional, National, and even Worlds level. We have riders who are just shy of making their main events at these important races and Valencia will get us on the podium. He has contacts and a team of volunteers that will solidify and grow the program. These changes will do nothing but enhance the experience for the local riders, as the track will be cared for, there will be someone at the track to make sure they are wearing protective gear, and they will have someone to teach them how to ride the track. The program has been in a slow decline with the Huntoons at the helm. Valencia is perfect for this program. LARPD, please reverse your decision and instate Nick Valencia as the Track Director in time for the 2009 season!!

6:39 pm PST, Nov 13, Nick Valencia, California
We need to make some changes and they need to be made sooner rather than later :)

Ive known him for 24 years and he's a class act all the way.