BMX rider Daniel Sandoval has shared insights into his recent experience participating in the MoonPay X Games League Championship in New Orleans, highlighting the challenges he faced while managing multiple injuries. Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE, Sandoval reflected on how he navigated the demanding competition, wherein he fought through the pain of a cracked kneecap and wrist as well as fractured ribs.
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The 32-year-old athlete had to overcome considerable physical setbacks just days before the championship, following a dirt best trick event that strained him intensely. As he prepared for his final run in the new team-based league’s inaugural season on 26 July, Sandoval was determined not to let his injuries dictate his performance. “I wear a mouth guard, so I just clenched down every hit, every landing, and just tried to focus on the next wall,” he explained, detailing a mental strategy that involved careful calculation and determination during each trick he attempted.
To the spectators, Sandoval’s performance may have appeared seamless, but beneath the surface, the reality was starkly different. “Everything is all calculations, and it’s hard to understand because we’re just riding bikes and it looks easy. But in reality, we’re really just calculating how far we need to push,” he said, emphasising the intricacies involved in his sport and the inner dialogue driving him forward despite the pain.
Adding to his resilience that day was the presence of his two-year-old daughter, Alaya. Sandoval revealed that having her there provided him with an additional layer of motivation. “She was in the dugout, and it was pretty awesome,” he remarked. Despite her young age and lack of understanding of the event’s significance, her mere presence instilled a sense of purpose within him.
Training and competing under pressure with his daughter in mind changed Sandoval’s perspectives on both BMX and life itself. “Don’t live life with regret,” he advised, stressing the importance of overcoming challenges and setting positive examples for his child.
The MoonPay X Games League introduced a new format to action sports, featuring teams of five men and five women from various disciplines to represent one of four city-based clubs. Sandoval’s team, XC New York, not only took home the title but also engaged him in new forms of competitive pressure. “There’s so much pressure,” he admitted, noting the camaraderie and shared effort among team members that spurred him on to perform.
Interestingly, Sandoval also reflected on how becoming a father has reshaped his approach to BMX riding. He’s transitioned from a mindset that encouraged risk-taking to one that emphasises calculated decisions aimed at prolonging his career. “I assume risks, but I’m much more calculated now,” he explained. This shift, he believes, is crucial for both safety and longevity in the sport.
Sandoval is acutely aware that his career in professional BMX has an expiration date, making self-care imperative. He remarked, “We have a shelf life,” highlighting his commitment to maintaining his health to push his limits as long as possible. His daughter has also taught him patience, both in everyday life and while riding.
Sandoval’s daily routine centres around his family, as BMX takes a backseat to spending quality time with his daughter. “It’s just family time,” he said about his typical day, which alternates between riding in the morning and gym visits. “Time flies, and it goes by,” he observed, showcasing his prioritisation of family relationships.
While clearly dedicated to his sport, Sandoval remains cautious about Alaya pursuing BMX. He prefers her to engage in activities that are less risky, stating, “If she’s like, ‘I want to do that,’ I’m like, ‘Maybe we should just take a couple of steps back.’” His own experiences have led him to recognise the potential hazards associated with extreme sports.
Looking ahead, Sandoval is focused on recovery and awaiting clearance to return to BMX riding. “The sooner I can get out there, I’m doing it—once I get cleared and once I’m good,” he said. With injuries dictating a more cautious approach, he anticipates his return to the sport but is committed to prioritising his health.
As Sandoval continues to navigate fatherhood alongside his BMX career, his story serves as a testament to resilience and the influence of family, grounding his competitive spirit in love and responsibility.