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It was a real treat to see Greg Illingworth return to South Africa to compete in the 2022 Park Lines BMX Tournament. Not only did he completely destroy the park with his signature speed and style with massive transfer hits thrown in for good measure, he also placed 4th in the Pro Category.
We caught up with Greg to get this thoughts on the experience, the event itself and more…
Full name: Greg Illingworth
Hometown: Hastings, England
Years riding: 23
Sponsors: Mongoose Bicycles, Profile Racing, Break Fluid Coffee, Bell Bike Helmets
How would you best sum up your experience at Park Lines 2022?
It was honestly overwhelming. Hanging out with so many old friends, people that have been a part of the SA BMX scene for as long as I can remember, was incredible. It filled my heart and nourished my soul!
What was your highlight moment of the day, and why?
That’s tough, as far as my personal riding goes, I was buzzing to ride away from that whip gap… even if it was a little back wheel heavy! Jenna Byrnes riding was a highlight for sure. I’ve not seen a female in SA with that much natural ability or motivation for BMX freestyle before. She is a treat to watch and a lovely young lady.
Coming into the contest, what were your expectations and were they reached?
My expectations were to ride hard and enjoy the time with old friends. I feel like I gave it everything I had on the day and I certainly loved seeing mates…. great success!
What was it like to ride the legendary Stoneridge park again?
It was great to ride it again. It reminded me of how fun the park is but also how tricky some lines are. It’s certainly up there was one of the best parks in the country. It’s sad that the park is closed. South African youth are desperate for positive cultural activities, here we have a perfect facility to accommodate that. It really wouldn’t take much to operate that place a few days per week.
Which riders impressed you the most and why?
Jenna (Byrnes) of course! Murray (Loubser) as always! Vin (Leygonie) keeps getting better and crazier. Nathi (Steeze) just gets more dialled and steezier every time I see him. Dylan (van Belkum) has come a long way too, his 270 Flip was savage.
What do you feel an event like Park Lines does for BMX in South Africa and where would you like to see it go?
Aside from getting the best park in the country unlocked?! It brings the scene together, which strengthens our community and drives progress on every level. Contests motivate riders and fuel the passion we already have. I would like to see it continue, I think it’s going in the right direction. Perhaps in time the event could affiliate with UCI and SA Cycling to register for official points, this would give SA riders the opportunity to compete at World Cup events in the future. I don’t think that’s absolutely necessary though, as long as riders can get together and ride, we’ve got something positive!
What would you like to see added to the next Park Lines BMX Tournament?
It would be great to see some kind of youth category or development jam for little ones.
What’s next for Greg Illingworth?
I’ve just joined the Great British Cycling Team as a coach, so the rest of the year will be helping develop riders like Dylan Hessey, Kieran Reilly and Sasha Pardoe into the best contest riders possible. I’ll also be co-ordinating the Backyard Jam National BMX series in the UK and riding trails as much as possible.
Any shout-outs?
Massive thank you to Mongoose for getting me over to the jam. To all the other sponsors for supporting the event. To Ryan and Monica (LW Mag) for making it all happen and thank you to all the friends and family that came to watch and support.
#ParkLines BMX Tournament presented by LW Mag and Dragon Energy in association with Dickies, Garmin, GoPro, Mongoose Bikes and Willards.
Photos by Eric Palmer.
