Jamie Bestwick: The Vert Virtuoso Who Redefined BMX

If you’ve ever watched a BMX vert competition and found yourself slack-jawed at the sheer audacity of the tricks being thrown down, chances are you were watching Jamie Bestwick in action. A towering figure in the BMX world—both literally and figuratively—Bestwick has spent decades pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on a bike. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of one of the sport’s true icons.

🏁 Origins: From Nottingham to the World Stage

Jamie Bestwick was born on July 8, 1971, in Nottingham, England. His BMX journey began at the tender age of 10, when he started riding with friends purely for fun. Back then, BMX was more about camaraderie and adventure than competition. But even in those early days, Jamie’s natural talent and fearless approach to riding set him apart.

Interestingly, BMX wasn’t his first career path. After finishing school, Jamie trained and worked as an engineer for Rolls-Royce, a prestigious job by any measure. But the call of the ramps proved too strong. He left the corporate world behind to pursue BMX professionally—a decision that would change the trajectory of the sport itself.

🚀 Rise to Dominance

Jamie’s competitive career took off in the mid-1990s, with his first appearance at the X Games in 1996. By 2000, he had dethroned Dave Mirra, ending Mirra’s three-year reign in BMX Vert and claiming gold. From there, Bestwick became virtually unstoppable. Between 2005 and 2014, he won nine consecutive X Games gold medals in Vert, a feat unmatched in BMX history.

🔥 Signature Tricks & Riding Style

Bestwick’s riding is defined by a blend of technical precision, massive amplitude, and creative combinations. He’s known for:

• Flawless 540 variations

• Tailwhip-to-barspin combos

• Turndown flairs

• No-handed 900s (yes, you read that right)

His ability to link complex tricks with fluid style made him a standout not just for judges, but for fans and fellow riders alike.

🧢 Sponsors & Support

Over the years, Jamie has been backed by some of the biggest names in BMX and action sports. His sponsors have included:

• GT Bicycles – one of the most iconic BMX brands

• Monster Energy – a staple in extreme sports

• Camp Woodward – where Jamie has also served as a mentor and coach

These partnerships helped amplify his reach and gave him the platform to inspire the next generation of riders.

🎬 Video Sections & Media Presence

Jamie’s riding has been featured in numerous BMX video parts and documentaries. His segments are known for their high production value and jaw-dropping trick execution. He’s also been a guest on podcasts like The Union Tapes, where he shared stories from the UK BMX boom of the 1980s, his early influences, and the evolution of vert riding.

🏆 Beyond the Bike

Jamie’s impact goes far beyond competition. He’s:

• Coached Olympic medalists like Charlotte Worthington and Declan Brooks

• Spoken at Yale University on topics of success and motorsports

• Performed in Cirque Rocks, a charity circus in New Zealand

• Co-founded Rothrock Coffee, blending his passion for community and entrepreneurship

• President of the Bestwick Foundation, supporting youth development through sports

📍 What’s Jamie Bestwick Up to Now?

Though he’s no longer dominating the contest circuit, Jamie is still deeply involved in BMX. He serves as the BMX Freestyle Coach for Great Britain’s Olympic team, helping riders refine their skills and mental game. He continues to ride, mentor, and advocate for the sport, proving that his influence is as strong off the ramp as it was on it.

Jamie Bestwick ripping at one of the legendary UKBFA comps from what must be around 1988/89

Jamie Bestwick, BMX Freestyle Worlds, Eindhoven, Holland, 1997

Jamie Bestwick - Episode 40 - The Union Tapes Podcast