Racing in the 40-years-and-over category, Fowler has been working on improving his skills atop his bike in hopes of winning the provincial championships. Seeded second, Fowler entered the provincial finals with one goal: to win.

At the sound of the whistle, the Orkney resident gave it his all, surpassing the eight other competitors on the track and finishing first in his age group. For his exceptional pedaling and manoeuvering skills, he was presented with a winner’s jersey and a special licence plate for his BMX.

“I can run with the Number 1 plate for my age category,” said Fowler, adding that he now holds the title of 2008 Provincial Champion. “I didn’t think I could get first this year, but I happened to squeak out.”

To qualify for the provincial finals, Fowler was required to participate in four Ontario Cup races throughout the season, which started in May. He raced at various venues, including ones in Chatham and Milton, leading up to the finals.

Pedaling through the obstacle track is something the father of two has been doing on and off since the 1980s. In a previous interview, Fowler appealed to the BMX racers he knew in his younger years from the Flamborough and Hamilton areas. He encouraged them to get back on their BMX bikes and enjoy the ride.

And cyclists responded to Fowler’s call. “There’s a half dozen that promised they would start up with their kids, which is great,” he said. “I like to see people my age, younger or older, get out and do something they enjoy. I just want people to get back into it. It’s a lot of fun.”

While the return of former racers to the track will add to the competition, Fowler is up for the challenge. “I would like to be able to win (the championship title) next year,” he said.

Currently in his off-season, Fowler will race next in the Christmas Classic, which is slated for December 28, south of the border.

For more information on BMX racing, visit www.ontariocycling.org .