Anyone who has had the chance to cross paths with Mykel Larrin knows that he’s not only one hell of a BMX rider, but he’s also an amazing human that is kind, humble and all in all a lot of fun to be around. Mykel grew up in the Midwest and he definitely hasn’t forgotten what it took to get to where he is today. The X Games dropped this piece where Mykel tells his story from how he got into BMX, getting into contests, making the choice to ride professionally over finishing college, being homeless and more. If you weren’t already a fan of Mykel, you will be after you watch this!
“From humble beginnings in Racine, Wisconsin, BMX rider Mykel Larrin discovered the local skatepark and inadvertently met his mentor, Kuko Padilla. With a new bike, a desire to learn and an eventual dream to turn pro, Mykel Larrin became a super local at the skatepark, learning to ride transitions of all types in the process.
“The skatepark changed the trajectory of my life,” says Larrin. “And the community that existed at the skatepark kept so many kids off the street.”
With his dreams set in motion, Larrin continued to focus on school and BMX riding, traveling to local competitions and demos throughout the Midwest. Eventually, the demanding schedule caught up with Larrin and he was forced to make a choice: continue college or pursue BMX riding.
Larrin chose to put school on hold and pursued BMX riding. Following international trips to do BMX demonstrations for Armed Forces members in the Middle East, and a few choice contest placings, Mykel Larrin was invited to ride X Games. From there, the proverbial sky has been the limit for Larrin.
This is Being Mykel Larrin.
Mykel Larrin is competing in two events at X Games Minneapolis 2019: BMX Vert at 7 p.m. CT on Thursday, August 1 and BMX Big Air at 8:45 p.m. CT on Friday, August 2. ” – X Games
