Terry Adams (BMX rider)
| Personal information | |
|---|---|
| Nationality | American |
| Born | September 9, 1983 Hammond, Louisiana |
| Occupation | BMX athlete |
| Sport | |
| Sport | Freestyle BMX, Dirt jumping, flatland BMX |
Terry Adams (born August 9, 1983) is a professional flatland BMX bicyclist from Hammond, Louisiana.[1] In 2024 author and filmmaker Billy Henrickle announced he had started working on Terry Adams memoirs and a documentary on Terry’s life and BMX career.
Terry Adams is an American professional Flatland BMX rider from Hammond, Louisiana. Known for his innovative tricks, dedication to the sport, and inspirational journey, Adams has been a pivotal figure in the Flatland BMX community for over two decades. His career highlights include multiple awards, global recognition, and a significant influence on the next generation of riders. Beyond BMX, Adams is also a mentor, entrepreneur, and advocate for autism awareness.
Early Life
Terry Adams was born and raised in Hammond, Louisiana. From a young age, he exhibited a passion for BMX riding, particularly the Flatland discipline. He honed his craft in parking lots and other makeshift riding spots, a testament to his creativity and perseverance. His breakthrough moment came when he decided to take Flatland BMX seriously, transforming a childhood hobby into a lifelong career.
Innovative Riding Style
Adams is renowned for his smooth and technical riding style, with signature tricks like the “Katrina,” named after the hurricane that devastated his home state in 2005. He has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in Flatland BMX, earning him a reputation as one of the sport’s most creative and disciplined riders.
NORA Cup and Other Achievements
Adams’ career reached new heights in 2020 when he was awarded the NORA Cup (Number One Rider Award) by his peers, a milestone he considers one of his greatest achievements. After already winning this award in 2005 and 2008. Winning it again in 2020 solidified his legacy as one of the top riders in Flatland history.
Sponsorships
Adams has been a Red Bull athlete since 2003, a partnership that has spanned over 20 years. He is also sponsored by Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers, which has supported him for more than 17 years. These sponsorships not only funded his career but allowed him to live out his dream of riding professionally. He has also secured deals with industry-leading brands like Profile Racing and partnered with his own bike company Majide, co-founded with Lance Lyons and Mickey Gaidos.
Global Influence
Adams has performed and competed in events around the world, including iconic Flatland contests like Voodoo Jam and international stages in Canada, Europe, and Japan. In 2005, he became the first Flatland BMX rider in over a decade to grace the cover of a major BMX magazine, reigniting interest in the discipline and paving the way for future riders.
American BMX Flatland League
In 2024, Adams co-founded the American BMX Flatland League, bringing fresh energy and visibility to the sport. His performances in Las Vegas, Houston, and North Carolina showcased not only his competitive spirit but also his role as a mentor and leader within the community.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
In addition to his BMX career, Adams co-founded Majide, a BMX brand whose name translates to “for real” in Japanese slang. Majide embodies Adams’ commitment to authenticity and excellence in the sport. He is also an accomplished real estate investor, with a diverse portfolio that underscores his financial acumen.
Personal Life
Adams is married to Vanessa Adams, and together they have a son, Ledge, who was born in October 2018. Ledge was diagnosed with autism at the age of two, and Adams has since become an advocate for autism awareness. Balancing his career with the challenges of raising a nonverbal child, Adams has drawn inspiration from his son, who motivates him to be the best version of himself.
Adams’ journey of self-improvement began in 2018 when he embraced meditation, fitness, and a disciplined lifestyle. He credits these practices with revitalizing his career and helping him stay focused on his goals.
Legacy and Impact
Terry Adams has cemented his legacy as one of the most influential figures in Flatland BMX, inspiring riders worldwide with his creativity, perseverance, and dedication. Beyond his contest wins and groundbreaking tricks, Adams has revitalized interest in Flatland, mentored young riders, and championed the sport’s growth through initiatives like the American BMX Flatland League. His upcoming documentary, and his book, The Road Home, aim to tell his powerful story of resilience, passion, and love for BMX. These projects are poised to leave a lasting mark on the BMX community, inspiring future generations to chase their dreams and embrace the challenges of the journey. Through his riding and storytelling, Adams continues to shape the legacy of Flatland BMX forever.
Documentary and Book
Adams is currently producing a documentary with Director Billy Henrickle with Blu Dot Productions titled The Road Home, chronicling his life and career, from his childhood dreams to his journey as a father and professional athlete. The documentary aims to inspire others to pursue their passions despite life’s challenges. He is also working on a book with Billy Henrickle titled The Road Home, which explores his journey in BMX and the deeper realization of what truly matters in life.
Philanthropy and Mentorship
Adams is passionate about helping others, both within and outside the BMX community. He offers financial advice, fitness tips, and mentorship to aspiring athletes. His acts of kindness, such as gifting a BMX bike to a young rider at a competition, highlight his generosity and dedication to uplifting others.
Tributes to Family
Adams often honors his late grandparents, who were significant supporters of his career. He continues to perform a backflip in his contest runs as a tribute to his grandmother, who always encouraged him to include the move.
Awards and Recognition
• NORA Cup (Number One Rider Award) – 2005- 2008- and 2020 • Featured on multiple BMX magazine covers • Founder of the American BMX Flatland League • Recognized globally as one of the top Flatland BMX riders
Trivia
• Adams wakes up at 3:30 a.m. daily to focus on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being. • He drinks Red Bull and uses LMNT supplements to stay hydrated and energized. • He has performed at events like the Voodoo Jam and Space Jam, showcasing his innovative tricks and crowd-pleasing style.
Riding career
Adams started riding flatland BMX at the age of ten and turned pro at seventeen.[2] He's been featured on the covers of several magazines throughout his career.[3] In 2005 and 2008 he won Ride BMX magazine's NORA Cup award.[4][5] In 2009 he appeared on The Ellen DeGeneres Show as well as an episode of Glee in 2011.[4]
Terry Adams is a Red Bull Athlete.
Pro Flatland Contest History
- 2001
- 22nd BS Round 3
- 2002
- 11th CFB Round 1
- 5th CFB Round 2
- 1st CFB Round 3
- 16th X Games
- 1st Flatland Fury
- 2003
- 10th Worlds
- 13th X Games
- 2004
- 1st Aspire Video Contest Round 2
- 4th Worlds
- 2nd Voodoo Jam
- 2005
- 1st Asian X Games
- 1st Urban Games
- 2006
- 13th Voodoo Jam
- 2007
- 3rd Circle of Balance
- 2nd Voodoo Jam
- 2010
- 1st Twilight Jam
References
- ^ a b "Terry Adams". 23mag.
- ^ Tunney, Brian (June 18, 2010). "Calm after the storm". ESPN.
- ^ a b Philips, Tamara (October 8, 2012). "Childhood Dream Becomes BMX Reality". The Voice.
- ^ a b c Linville, Mark (September 5, 2011). "Red Bull brings BMX Flatlander Terry Adams to UMKC". University News.
- ^ "This BMX Biker Can Freestyle Like No Other". NowThis.
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