Bay Village fifth-grader Huck Kurinsky has made headlines again by securing his fourth consecutive USA BMX Freestyle National Championship. The event took place over the weekend of October 11-12, 2023, in San Diego, California, where Huck showcased his remarkable skills in the 9–10 age division.
Huck’s performance stood out among a competitive field of young riders from across the nation. He earned a division-leading score, demonstrating both technical precision and creative flair, attributes that propelled him to victory. “Winning my fourth title feels amazing,” Huck shared following the event. “I’ve been working hard all year, and it’s awesome seeing it pay off. I love riding with my friends and learning from some of the best in the world.”
His achievement marks a significant milestone in a breakthrough year for the young athlete. Huck began his journey in BMX at the age of three, riding around a local skate park during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. This initial exploration evolved into a passion that has since transformed him into a nationally recognized talent. By the age of five, he was mastering advanced tricks, and at just six, he made history as the youngest rider to successfully land a BMX backflip on his first attempt at Woodward West in California.
Huck’s recent title win is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Riding a Huffy BMX equipped with the company’s new Sledgehammer freestyle frame, Huck has collaborated with Nick Bruce, an Olympian, and contributed to the frame’s development. This partnership highlights his growing influence in the sport at such a young age.
Rising Star with a Giving Heart
Beyond his impressive competitive accolades, Huck is committed to making a positive impact in his community. As Huffy’s Global Youth Ambassador, he actively promotes bike safety through the “Put a Lid on It” helmet-awareness program, supported by the Ohio Academy of Pediatrics. His efforts aim to instill safe riding practices among young cyclists.
Huck’s outreach extends further as he has visited five Ronald McDonald Houses across the Midwest, donating bikes and scooters to families in need, bringing joy to children facing challenging situations. He also leads annual “Bike to Cure” charity events, benefiting the Cleveland Clinic’s VeloSano cancer-research initiative in memory of his late grandmother, Susan Althoff.
“Huck embodies what we hope all young athletes can be,” said a representative from the Bay Village City School District. “He’s exceptional in his sport, but he’s also an exceptional student and an exceptional person who cares deeply about his community.”
A Bright Future Ahead
Managing a national athletic career alongside academic responsibilities and competitive soccer is a formidable challenge for most adults, yet Huck navigates these demands with impressive maturity. His family and school community have been instrumental in supporting his journey, ensuring he remains grounded amidst his growing fame.
With the inclusion of BMX Freestyle in the Olympic Games since Tokyo 2020, the sport has gained significant visibility. For Huck, the Olympics represent a tangible goal motivating his training and competition schedule. He has already competed at the UCI BMX Freestyle World Cup in France, gaining invaluable experience on an international stage.
Under the guidance of U.S. Cycling Head Coach Jamie Bestwick, Huck continues to refine his skills in preparation for future competitions. If his current trajectory continues, he could represent the United States in the Olympics as early as 2028 in Los Angeles, when he will be just 13 years old, or more likely in 2032 at the age of 17.
For now, Huck remains focused on his training, academics, and enjoying childhood. His recent national championship victory is not only a culmination of years of dedication but also an indication of the promising achievements that lie ahead. As he continues to soar through the BMX world, the community of Bay Village and the entire BMX freestyle family will be watching closely, eager to see how high Huck Kurinsky can fly.
