1984 Trevor Robinson

1984 Trevor Robinson wins the first ever Pro money race in the UK

From the very start of BMX racing in the UK, it was not until March 1984 that the first official Pro or Superclass money event took place, where the top riders lined up for a chance to be part of British race history.

The event was put on by Fred Hunter of Dronfield Demons and took place at Derby Greyhound Stadium under the floodlights. It was classified as an open meeting, as the race was not eligible for National points in either UKBMX or NBMXA.

A total of 650 riders turned out on a cold, wet March Sunday, with the only big names absent being Andy Ruffell, who was doing demos in Scotland, and Tim March, who was a no show. It was rumoured he was recovering from a broken ankle, or perhaps still in the States training with Greg Hill and not ready to show his cards for the 84 season.

With it not being a National event, it opened the door not only to the top riders who would be racing the newly formed Superclass that coming season in UKBMX, but also to top amateur riders from both NBMXA and UKBMX, who had the chance to sign up and go for the money.

UKBMX number 1 riders in the 15 and 16 age groups, Craig Schofield and Martin Jose, were in Derby for local sponsor Raleigh, as was NBMXA British Champion Scott Williams for GT, along with Gary O’Connor for Patterson. All had plans to stay in their amateur classes for the 84 season but wanted in on the prize money and the chance to line up with the top guys.

Birmingham Wheels Big Trev Robinson was fresh back from winter training in the States, alongside other top UKBMX names including Mark White, Pat Robinson, Tony Slater, Pete Middleton and Jamie Vince.

On the NBMXA side you had Hutch’s Simon Bailey, Cobra’s Dale Goodwin and 83 British Champion Darren Bullock from just up the road in Doncaster.

When the gate dropped on Sunday night for the final, Big Trevor Robinson powered from the outside lane to take the win and £100 back to Birmingham. Scott Williams came in with an impressive second, earning £50, with Tony Slater finishing third and taking £25 for the final podium spot.