The Bermuda Motorcycle Racing Association has launched its highly anticipated 2025 Youth Academy with the unveiling of a new fleet of MiniGP motorcycles.

Based on the tarmac side of the Southside Raceway, the academy incorporates on and off-track lessons, drills, riding theory and safety with the new motorcycles, which were recently imported from Spain and are aligned with global standards for junior motorcyclists.

The partnership between the BMRA and MIR Racing developed through connections made by former BMRA youth academy participant and international racer, Aeziah Divine, who competed with the organisation in Spain in 2023.

That year, MIR Racing took over as the championship organisers for the former Cuna de Campeones (the Cradle of Champions), a prestigious development academy and championship that helped many world champions begin their early careers, including current world champion, Jorge Martín.

“We are honoured to have established a connection with MIR Racing and to be collaborating with the BMRA's Youth Development Programme,” said Billy Dunn, youth development co-ordinator.

“We are excited to work with a race bike manufacturer that also runs a youth racing academy, providing us with a great model for our programme and the right racing equipment for our youth riders.

“This partnership has created an excellent pathway for our riders to transition from Bermuda into a world-class training environment. 2B Motorsports, co-owned by myself and my partner Brandon Collins, are committed to offering local riders opportunities to race in international series. Through our partnership with the BMRA, we’ve worked together to develop their youth development programme and new race classes, aiming to nurture the next generation of champions.”

The Youth Academy is open to riders aged 8 to 18 and will serve as a vital training ground, fostering the next generation of Bermudian stars and preparing them for success at home and abroad.

The fleet of seven motorcycles is an exciting addition and gives more young riders the opportunity to learn the basics of motorcycling on an easy-to-navigate, miniature race motorcycle. Riders benefit from access to a safe environment to focus on understanding the basics of riding such as balance, situational awareness, coordination, safety gear, cornering, braking and throttle control.

Founded in 1997 by Bermudian and former US racing competitor David Jones, the BMRA has been at the forefront of motorcycle racing development in Bermuda. With a mission to nurture young talent and grow the sport locally, the organisation has continually evolved to provide aspiring riders with top-tier training and resources.

“We are incredibly excited about this next chapter for the BMRA,” said Jones, the BMRA president.

“Our partnership with MIR Racing represents a significant step forward in our mission to develop young racing talent. We are deeply grateful to the Department of Sport and Recreation and all those who have supported us on this journey.”

The academy will be held on Saturdays between 10am and 1pm with opportunities to ride during afternoon open track days as well. Registrations are open and include access to weekly training, rental bikes, and the purchase of safety gear. Those interested in joining the programme or learning more are invited to visit the Southside Raceway on Saturdays from 1pm to 4pm.

More information will be given about registration and the programme at the BMRA annual meeting, which will be held on March 6 at 6pm in the BIU building second floor. Club annual membership is $100 and membership forms will be available.

• For more information, contact David E. Jones (president) on 735-6436 or e-mail Davideverestjones3121@gmail.com; or Billy Dunn (youth development co-ordinator) on 595-0199 or e-mail billy@2bmotorsports.com