Woody Itson: The Flatland Maestro Who Shaped BMX Freestyle

In the golden era of BMX freestyle, few names carried the weight and respect of Woody Itson. Born in the early 1960s in the United States, Woody emerged as one of the most influential flatland riders of the 1980s—a time when BMX was exploding into mainstream culture and carving out its identity as more than just a sport, but a lifestyle.

From Dirt Tracks to Flatland Fame

Woody’s journey into BMX began like many of his generation—on the race track. He first dipped his toes into competitive BMX racing, but it wasn’t long before he discovered the creative freedom of freestyle. While many riders gravitated toward ramps and skateparks, Woody found his calling on the ground. Flatland BMX, with its intricate balance and technical mastery, became his canvas.

He transitioned fully into flatland riding, abandoning aerial tricks for a style that was grounded—literally—and deeply expressive. Woody’s riding was marked by precision, flow, and a kind of elegance that made him stand out in a scene often dominated by flash and flair.

Signature Tricks and Style

Woody Itson was known for his buttery-smooth execution of tricks like the "spinning lawnmower," "whiplash," and "decade." His riding wasn’t just about pulling off difficult moves—it was about making them look effortless. He had a unique ability to link tricks together in seamless combinations, which gave his runs a rhythmic, almost dance-like quality.

His style was clean, calculated, and ahead of its time. He was one of the first riders to truly embrace the artistic side of BMX freestyle, helping to elevate flatland from a niche discipline to a respected art form within the sport.

Sponsors and Industry Impact

Woody’s talent didn’t go unnoticed. He was sponsored by Hutch BMX during the peak of his riding career, famously associated with the Trick Star frame—a bike that became iconic thanks in part to Woody’s influence. Later, he became deeply involved with GT Bicycles, not just as a rider but as a team manager and product designer. His work behind the scenes helped shape the direction of freestyle BMX in the 1990s.

After GT was acquired by Schwinn and eventually faced bankruptcy, Woody transitioned to Giant Bicycles, where he continued to manage teams and influence bike design. His career in the industry extended well beyond his time as a professional rider, making him a key figure in BMX’s evolution.

Video Sections and Media Presence

Though BMX media in the 1980s wasn’t as saturated as today’s YouTube and Instagram landscape, Woody still made his mark. He appeared in numerous BMX magazines and was featured in classic BMX videos and promotional tours, including the Hutch Trick Show in 1985. His performances were often the highlight of these productions, showcasing a level of control and creativity that few could match.

One standout moment was his appearance at the BMX Hall of Fame, where he revisited his legendary pink Hutch Trick Star and shared stories from his riding days. These glimpses into his past continue to inspire new generations of riders.

Life Beyond the Bike

After retiring from professional riding, Woody pursued a degree in accounting from Cal State Long Beach. But the bike world kept calling, and he found himself back in the industry, shaping teams and mentoring riders. He eventually settled into a quieter life, marrying his wife Jacqueline and starting a family. He’s a proud father and, by his own admission, still sneaks in a ride when time allows—though he’s more likely to revisit his old tricks than chase new ones.

Woody Itson

Woody Itson // AFA Masters // Palmetto Florida // 1988 (Flatland)