Corey Martinez: The Southern Gentleman of BMX Street

If you’ve spent any time in the BMX world, the name Corey Martinez is bound to ring a bell. Known for his smooth style, technical precision, and fearless approach to street riding, Corey—often affectionately called “T-Nez”—has carved out a legacy that spans decades and continues to evolve.

🏁 Origins: From Southern Roots to Global Recognition

Corey Martinez was born on April 24, 1983, in Texas, but he grew up in Decatur, Alabama. It was there, surrounded by Southern charm and a tight-knit community, that his BMX journey began. At just ten years old, Corey received a bike for his birthday and quickly became captivated by the local kids riding ditches near his house. That spark ignited a lifelong passion.

He started learning tricks alongside Seth Kimbrough, who would also go on to become a professional BMX rider. Their early sessions laid the foundation for Corey’s unique blend of creativity and control. His first major contest was the Jinx Contest in Nashville, where he stunned the crowd by beating heavyweights like Ryan Nyquist—a sign of things to come.

🔥 Signature Style & Standout Tricks

Corey’s riding is a masterclass in versatility. He’s known for blending big, burly moves with intricate technical lines. Whether it’s a gap to manual on a sketchy rail or a feeble to 180 on a ledge most riders wouldn’t touch, Corey makes it look effortless. He’s also one of the few riders who’s transitioned between riding with brakes, going brakeless, and then returning to brakes—each phase adding new dimensions to his riding.

His bike control is legendary. He can float a 360 to fakie with the grace of a dancer, then drop into a tooth hanger grind that leaves jaws on the floor. Corey’s riding isn’t just about tricks—it’s about style, flow, and making the impossible look poetic.

🧢 Sponsors & Gear

Over the years, Corey has been backed by some of the biggest names in BMX:

• United Bike Co. – His long-time frame sponsor

• Cinema Wheel Co. – Known for high-quality components

• Etnies – Footwear that’s seen countless pedal grinds

• Red Bull – A nod to his elite status in the sport

He’s also had signature parts, like the Cinema Martinez stem, and has been featured in numerous bike checks that showcase his dialed setups.

🎬 Iconic Video Sections

Corey’s video parts are the stuff of legend. His section in This Is United (2012) won Video Part of the Year at the NORA Cup and remains one of the most celebrated street edits in BMX history. He’s also appeared in the Red Bull TV series Ride & Seek, riding alongside Garrett Reynolds and Tony Neyer.

More recently, his Keepin’ ON video for Cinema dropped in December 2022 and was a raw, unfiltered look at Corey’s riding in its purest form. Shot entirely on an iPhone, the edit captured his creativity and grit in a way that polished productions often miss. From gap-to-manuals to flatland combos, it’s a testament to his enduring talent.

🌴 Life Now: Costa Rica & Continued Passion

These days, Corey resides in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica—a tropical paradise that’s become his new playground. He’s still riding regularly, filming raw clips at local skateparks and exploring new lines with the same enthusiasm he had as a kid in Alabama. His Instagram is a steady stream of sun-soaked sessions, creative combos, and the occasional surf break.

Despite being in his 40s, Corey shows no signs of slowing down. He’s proof that BMX isn’t just a young man’s game—it’s a lifelong pursuit if you treat your body right and keep the fire burning.

💬 Final Thoughts

Corey Martinez isn’t just a BMX rider—he’s a storyteller on two wheels. His journey from Southern ditches to international contests, from magazine covers to Costa Rican skateparks, is one of passion, perseverance, and pure love for the ride. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just discovering BMX, Corey’s legacy is one worth knowing—and watching.

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