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Local BMX star, Kevin Peraza, heads to fifth X Games

23-year-old rising star talks about what's next
Posted at 2:01 PM, Jul 15, 2018
and last updated 2018-07-15 20:24:31-04

Tucson's world champion BMX rider is putting his hometown and sport on the national stage once again.

At just 23-years-old, Kevin Peraza has been invited to his fifth X Games. He's a role model for many with humble roots.

"I literally came from riding the ditches and the local racetracks," Peraza said. "And having ramps built in my backyard by my dad and the rest of my brothers."

Peraza has taken home two gold medals in the past two years. This year, he's riding in both BMX Park and Dirt. He'll be defending last year's gold medal in BMX Park, where he showed off his street style.

RELATED: Kevin Peraza wins second X Games gold medal

This hometown hero says it's not just about preparing physically, but mentally, too. He says becoming a pescatarian has helped him feel better than ever.

"I skipped out on a few events before this big event just to feel energized, just to feel at home and to feel prepared," Peraza said. "I feel good."

RELATED: Tucson's Peraza talks what's next, and what keeps him motivated

With a lot to look forward to this week, the big challenge on the horizon is on a much grander scale: the 2020 Olympics.

When Peraza's not competing, he's here in Tucson, seeing kids trying similar tricks to what he's doing at events worldwide. Growing up, he said there wasn't a place for him to ride like there is today at Premises Park.

RELATED: Tucson's Peraza looks to repeat as gold medalist at X-Games

"Coming from Tucson, you know with just the family support and a couple bike parts that were given to me, I believe it gives kids that possibility and that goal of wanting to achieve something that's impossible," Peraza said.

Because nothing's impossible. I have two gold medals and I'm going back next week to defend it.

Peraza's first event is on Friday for dirt and if he makes it through, he'll ride in the finals on Saturday. The park event is on Sunday. Stay with KGUN9 for updates.