Key Takeaways:– 12‑year‑old Knox Reaves and his 8‑year‑old brother Deacon have both earned spots on Team USA’s BMX racing squad.
- The brothers will travel together to Australia for an international competition, marking their first overseas race as a team.
- A community fundraiser will be held Saturday, May 2, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at The Rock in Coal Valley. – The event will include a silent auction, raffle baskets, a 50/50 drawing, and food vendors such as walking tacos and popcorn.
- All proceeds are intended to cover travel, lodging, and entry costs for the brothers’ trip. Fundraiser Event Overview:
The Reaves family is hosting a family‑friendly fundraiser at The Rock in Coal Valley on May 2. The gathering will run from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and will feature a silent auction of donated items, multiple raffle baskets, a 50/50 cash drawing, and a variety of concessions including walking tacos, popcorn, desserts, and other snack options. Organizers hope the event will raise enough money to pay for flights, accommodations, and competition fees for Knox and Deacon as they prepare for their first international BMX race together.
Qualification Process Details:
Knox and Deacon secured their places on Team USA after a rigorous qualification period that spanned several national BMX series events. Each competition weekend includes separate race days where riders earn points toward a national ranking. During a January qualifying meet, the brothers not only placed first in their respective age‑group categories but also impressed selectors during the subsequent high‑stakes qualifying rounds later that Friday. Their consistent performances across multiple stops earned them official spots on the U.S. national BMX team.
Competition History and Past International Trips:
This upcoming Australian tour will be Knox’s third appearance on the international stage. Three years ago he qualified for a trip to Scotland, only to break his collarbone shortly before departure; he was later cleared to travel and competed successfully. The following year he raced in South Carolina, posted the fastest lap time in his age group, and advanced to the semifinals. Deacon, who turned 8 recently, met the minimum age requirement for the 20‑inch bike division and earned his first national team selection. Their combined experience adds depth to the squad, even though this will be the first time the brothers compete abroad together.
Brotherly Rivalry and Training Routine:
Deacon has made it clear he is eager to follow in his older brother’s footsteps—and to beat him at every opportunity. Their mother, Emily Reaves, notes with a laugh that Deacon “wants to do everything his brother does and also beat him.” Both boys train regularly at the East Moline pump track, where they hone BMX handling skills, and they supplement their practice with sprint workouts at home. Their preparation also includes a packed national race schedule that takes them to events across the country throughout the year, ensuring they remain competitive on the world stage.
Family Perspective and Support:
Emily Reaves emphasizes that the family’s primary goal is to provide the brothers with an unforgettable experience while covering the substantial costs associated with international travel. She describes the upcoming competition as a “dream come true” for both boys, especially because it allows them to represent the United States side by side. The parents and siblings are actively involved in organizing the fundraiser, recruiting volunteers, and spreading awareness about the event, underscoring the community’s vital role in making the trip possible.
Training Locations and Upcoming Preparations:
Beyond the pump track in East Moline, the brothers incorporate strength and cardio sessions into their weekly regimen to maintain peak physical condition. They also study video footage of international competitors to refine their techniques and strategy. In the weeks leading up to the May 2 fundraiser, the family will host a series of practice races at local BMX facilities, giving the boys additional race‑day experience and allowing them to test new equipment ahead of the Australian event.
Motivation Behind the Competition:
Deacon says he enjoys the thrill of competition and the satisfaction of winning, while Knox values the opportunity to travel, meet riders from different countries, and test himself against the world’s best. Both brothers agree that the upcoming Australian competition represents a culmination of years of hard work and sacrifice. Their excitement is palpable, and they are eager to showcase their skills on an international stage while forging memories that will last a lifetime.
Media Promotion and Community Involvement:
The Current radio station will broadcast live interviews with the Reaves family from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, providing listeners with updates about the fundraiser and the brothers’ preparation. Community members are encouraged to tune in, ask questions, and learn how they can support the cause. Local businesses have also pledged donations and sponsorships, further amplifying the event’s reach and impact throughout the region.
How the Public Can Contribute:
Residents can help by attending the May 2 fundraiser, purchasing raffle tickets, and bidding on silent‑auction items. Monetary donations can be made directly to the Reaves family’s GoFundMe page, which is linked on the event flyer. Additionally, volunteers are welcome to assist with setup, food service, and cleanup on the day of the event. Every contribution, big or small, brings Knox and Deacon one step closer to realizing their dream of representing Team USA in Australia.