COEUR d'ALENE - Brian Donnell said the riders at the Cherry Hill BMX track in Coeur d'Alene range from 2 to 76 years old.

The variety among individuals who participate highlights what the longtime track operator loves about the sport. Donnell added that there are many opportunities this summer to head to the track and watch the action, or give the pedals a spin for yourself.

"I always tell people the best thing about BMX is that it's such an individual sport," Donnell said. "It's just you out there pushing yourself."

The summer season kicks off on Saturday with the Warnicke Scholarship Race. Donnell said tracks across the nation will all participate, and that the $10 race entry fees go to USA BMX for their Bob Warnicke Memorial Scholarship Fund.

Warnicke, who died in 1994 at age 48, was well known for his leadership role and efforts to promote the sport. He played an instrumental role in launching the "Road to Glory" series which ran on ESPN and brought BMX to millions of viewers.

Registration for the event begins at the track at 10 a.m., and the races are scheduled to start at 11:30 a.m.

Cherry Hill BMX, the volunteer organization which runs the track, will host a day of free racing on June 20. Donnell said since the event is during Father's Day weekend, he is encouraging dads to come to the track and ride with their kids.

"This is one of the best days to come out and try it if you're new to the sport," Donnell said.

Interested participants should wear long pants and bring a helmet along with their BMX bike. If people want to race, but don't have the necessary equipment, Donnell said there will be extras available at the track they can borrow.

"We will make sure that every person has the opportunity to do it that wants to," Donnell said.

Registration for the event begins at the track at 10 a.m. and the races are scheduled to start at 11:30 a.m.

For a complete schedule of summer events at the Cherry Hill BMX track, visit www.usabmx.com/tracks/1273. Those with questions about the track, or any of the events, can email the organization at [email protected].