Pedals and pride: 8-year-old Emily's BMX journey
Pietermaritzburg native, Emily Eloff is taking the world of BMX racing by him storm. She’s set to go to Copenhagen in late July to represent SA.
At just eight-years-old, Emily Eloff is making waves in the BMX racing world.
Currently ranked number one in South Africa in her age group, Emily has been passionate about BMX racing since the age of five.
"I think I am very brave, not scared and I love riding my bike very fast," she says, attributing her success to her bravery and dedication to training.
Emily's journey began when she was just four-years-old, watching her friend Chad race his BMX. She nagged her parents to buy her a BMX bike and on her fifth birthday, she got one. Despite falling during her first race, Emily was determined to continue riding.
"I fell during my very first race but I was brave and didn’t want to stop riding," she recalls.
Now, Emily is set to take her talents to the international stage, competing in the UCI BMX World Championships in Copenhagen, Denmark, from 29 July to 3 August, 2025.
"I am very excited to go on an aeroplane and race my BMX overseas for South Africa," she says, admitting to getting butterflies in her tummy when thinking about it. "I can’t wait to meet all my BMX heroes."
As a role model for young girls, Emily encourages others to take up the sport.
"I would like it if I could get more girls to come and race BMX with me. It is exciting and so much fun," she says. Her advice to younger kids is to visit a BMX track and watch the racers in action.
To make her dream a reality, Emily's family is looking to raise R80,000 to cover expenses such as travel, competition fees and race kit. With the support of donors, Emily will be able to represent South Africa with pride on the international stage. Click here to access her BackaBuddy.
Speaking about their little girl’s success, Emily’s parents, Janine and Cliff Eloff, said they are extremely proud of her and all she has already achieved at a young age.
“We have enjoyed watching her race BMX in South Africa and it will be unbelievable to watch her race at the World Championships! She is a brave, determined and passionate little girl and gives more than 100% in everything that she does! We hope she can go to Copenhagen and enjoy the incredible experience! We would love her to do well but we will be proud of her no matter what the outcome is. We believe that you can do it, Emily!”
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