Not since Tom Cruise carried out an unauthorised flypast have the US armed forces seemed so fun...

Let's face it, BMX racing is not mainstream. No matter how many Dave Mirra games hit playstation screens, it is simple fact that hitting the track or the halfpipe on a BMX is something that belongs firmly in the X-Games.

So how on earth does Liberty BMX Racing, a racing team consisting of BMX riding US armed forces servicemen and their families come into being. The US armed forces are a major part of the American psyche, and no more so than now - surely BMX racing in such a background is sheer folly.

Yet in February 2006 Lee Geddings, an active duty US Air Force Staff Sergeant, set out to bring this sport within the walls of the military machine. More than that, Liberty BMX Racing would actively promote itself as connected with the armed forces, offering help to riders, and promotion of the lighter side of military service.

Less than half a year later and the team is fulfilling the role.

There are now 56 riders, registered with the American Bicyce Association and the National Bicycle League, who ride for Liberty. There is no discrimination as to age or ability, with riders running from 6 years old to 45, culminating in an ABA A-Pro, Daniel Greer.