Paris teen wins BMX Texas State Finals

James Carlton competes at the BMX Texas State Finals || Photo: Submitted

Just two years after taking up the sport, 16-year-old James Carlton just won the BMX Texas State Finals. The Paris, Texas native credits his long hours of intensive training, supportive parents and a flexible schedule provided by homeschooling.

The teen began biking amid the pandemic as a way to get fresh air. When his parents realized he not only had a passion for BMX, but excelled at it, they worked to find him a proper BMX bike, which was no easy feat during the height of shipping delays and shortages.

The long hours on the track were not a concern in the early months when all schools were virtual, but when schools reopened in 2021, Carlton was faced with a decision – choose BMX or school.

It was at a race that a fellow BMX racer recommended Time4Learning, a homeschooling platform.

Carlton’s family made the decision to begin homeschooling and the flexibility provided him with the competitive edge necessary to qualify for nationals.

He is now ranked first in the state and has plans to travel the globe for competitions.