BMX racing uses purpose-built BMX bikes on a dirt track with jumps, rollers, berms and banked turns. Races are short and explosive, with riders accelerating from a starting gate and competing for position through technical sections.
The discipline developed from motocross-inspired riding in California during the 1970s. BMX racing became an Olympic sport at the 2008 Beijing Games. Olympic BMX racing is held on a compact outdoor course, while elite events can include a distinctive larger starting hill and challenging rhythm sections.
BMX racing differs from BMX freestyle, which judges tricks and aerial maneuvers rather than finishing order. It also differs from mountain bike racing, which generally uses larger-wheeled bicycles and longer natural-terrain courses. The shared BMX name refers to bicycle motocross, but the racing format is specifically about speed around a prepared track.