BMX has lost another talented rider… Rest In Peace, Jason Brown.
It’s always a bummer to wake up and hear the news that another BMX rider that left their mark on the history of our sport has passed away. We caught wind that Jason Brown had decided to take his own life the other day. Jason was a professional flatland rider that rode for brands like 2 Hip, GT and Redline over the years and made appearances in the X Games throughout the 90’s. There’s a few words from Effraim over on Flat Matters and Brian Tunney put together a piece on the X Games website. Jason was 46 when he passed.
“Jason Brown-2nd place flatlad pro BMX Worlds. The Netherlands BMX freestyle worlds 1997, Eindhoven. Camera: Tone Stojko & Simon Stojko Falk; director: Simon Stojko Falk”
There have been a few riders that we’ve lost to suicide over the past few years and losing just one is far too many. Depression, anxiety, stress and more can lead people down a very dark road. I’ve been there and many, many, many others have battled with mental illness. If you’re having thoughts of suicide or just having a hard time dealing with life, reach out to people… As many people as you can. Family, friends, drop a few lines on social media… Somebody will be there to help. If you don’t have those, there are a number of different suicide hotlines that are there for you, too. Don’t let it win… Live to ride another day.