The Heart of the Gates
Not every important figure in Kansas City BMX earned a factory contract or a national title. Some built their legacy through consistency, friendship, and an unwavering commitment to the sport. Larry Reel was one of those riders. Beginning his BMX career in 1979 at Hill Park, Larry quickly became one of the familiar faces of Kansas City BMX during the sport's formative years. Week after week, he lined up against many of the area's best racers, helping create the competitive atmosphere that made Kansas City one of the Midwest's strongest BMX communities.
Racing for Gary's Bike Mart
Racing for Gary's Bike Mart, Larry became a member of the shop's DG Team, competing throughout the Midwest during BMX's rapid growth. Although national victories eluded him, he earned numerous Triple Point victories and collected more than 300 trophies over the course of his racing career.
More Than a Competitor
Larry recalls that both he and Tim Sparks raced for Gary's Bike Mart on DG bicycles and that he frequently drove Tim to out-of-town races. Those trips reflected the willingness of riders and families to help one another during BMX's earliest years. Larry's firsthand recollections have also prompted new research into the history of Gary's Bike Mart and its connection to the development of Kansas City BMX.
Embracing Change
Larry was among the early riders to embrace the emerging cruiser class, racing a Mongoose Cruiser when cruiser racing debuted at Downs Arena. Like many Kansas City pioneers, he welcomed new ideas and new challenges as BMX evolved.
Giving Back
Later in life, Larry began giving many of his trophies to young riders who had not yet experienced the thrill of winning one themselves. It was a simple but meaningful act that reflected the spirit of encouragement and sportsmanship that has long defined Kansas City BMX.
Preserving the History
Today Larry remains an important voice in preserving Kansas City BMX history through photographs, stories, and firsthand recollections that continue to document the people, places, and events of the era.
Legacy
Larry Reel's story reminds us that Kansas City BMX was never built by champions alone. It was built by dedicated racers who filled the gates every weekend, supported one another, and helped create a community that has endured for generations.
Hometown: Independence, Missouri
Started Racing: 1979
First Track: Hill Park
Sanctions: ABA
First Sponsor: Gary's Bike Mart
Team: Gary's Bike Mart 'DG Team'
First Bike: Huffy
Favorite Bikes: Mongoose; DG
Career at a Glance
Earned numerous Triple Point victories Collected more than 300 BMX trophies Early Kansas City cruiser racer Helped Tim Sparks travel to out-of-town races Later donated trophies to encourage young riders
Historical Note
This biography is based on firsthand interviews, photographs, race records, and historical materials preserved by the Kansas City BMX History Project. As additional documentation becomes available, this biography may be expanded to further preserve Larry Reel's contribution to Kansas City BMX history.
