2025 INDUCTEE TOM JEFFREYS
Tom Jeffreys began his BMX journey at age 15 at Spinnin’ Spokes BMX in Omaha, Nebraska. Quickly rising through the Expert ranks in the early 1980s, Tom showed the skill and determination that would define his career. By 1981, Nebraska’s Pro class was highly competitive, and Tom made the leap to professional racing. In 1985, he and fellow Nebraskan Tim Lillethorup competed at the ABA Grand Nationals, winning motos and reaching the Semi Finals — narrowly missing the Main Event by a single point, a testament to his talent and the intensity of BMX racing in that era.
Around 1987, Tom began exploring Freestyle BMX, performing in parades and eventually for Applause Video, promoting the movie RAD and helping introduce freestyle to wider audiences. He formed his own trick team, performing at September Fest, company picnics, and civic events in Nebraska and Iowa. Notably, he became the first freestyle rider to perform at Omaha’s Civic Auditorium Auto Show, solidifying his reputation as an innovator. Tom also earned competitive freestyle honors, winning the Wichita Freestyle Series and standout events like the Safari Bar showcase, while partnering with Anthony Chambers for Teen Club shows that inspired a generation of young riders.
After a break to serve in the Army, Tom returned to cycling at age 50 through mountain bike racing, winning the 2013 Psycowpath Series Cat II, the 2013 Iowa Series Cat II, and the 2014 Psycowpath Series.
He revitalized his passion for jumping and trick riding, constructing sanctioned jumps at Swanson Park in Omaha, marking the first time mountain bike jumps were allowed on local trails.
He eventually purchased property, and built his own jump lines complete with bridges and large features, creating a destination for riders from across the region. Tom united the BMX and mountain bike communities and sparked a regional wave of jump line development in Nebraska and Iowa.
From his early days at Spinnin’ Spokes to his groundbreaking freestyle performances and mountain bike jump innovations, Tom Jeffreys has shown creativity, perseverance, and a lifelong commitment to cycling. His influence has transformed BMX and mountain biking in the Midwest, making him a truly deserving inductee into the Nebraska BMX Hall of Fame.
