Congratulations to the late David Duffield! Inducted into The British BMX Hall Of Fame Class of 2024

A larger-than-life, charismatic personality who radiated enthusiasm and a positive attitude, David Duffield’s energy overflowed into the sport of Bicycle Motocross. As the marketing manager at Halfords’ Head Office, he ventured to the 1980 New York Cycle Show on a fact-finding mission. Upon witnessing the immense growth and success of Bicycle Motocross across the USA, he knew there would be a market for it in the UK.

With Halfords, he wasted no time in declaring his commitment, launching BMX to the cycle trade and press in London in May 1980. He supported the construction of the Redditch BMX Track near Halfords’ Head Office, where the first official BMX race took place on August 30, 1980. He said, “I knew it was going to work! It’s perfect for us. I’m sure it is, yep.”

Steadfast in his commitment to BMX, he supported the Redditch Anglo American Races in 1981 and 1982 and advocated for the opening of BMX tracks across the UK.

He was welcomed back to open the all-new Redditch BMX Track in July 2010. He later became a commentator for the Kellogg’s BMX TV Series and a cycling commentator for Eurosport in the 1990s and 2000s, showcasing his unparalleled ability to convey his immense passion for the sport. He didn’t just talk about cycling; he was cycling!

Ladies and gentlemen, your winner, a true legendary BMX pioneer – David Duffield.

Words by Steve Rooke