By Samantha SLAYBACK

This Saturday brings the 4th Annual Joe’s Minibike Reunion (JMBR) to Crescenta Valley Park, 3901 Dunsmore Ave. in La Crescenta. Taking place from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., the reunion is expected to include over 200 minibikes and host 1,000 spectators. The event is free to the public, and kid- and pet-friendly.

The event was initially sparked by an idea of creator Joe Sebergandio’s daughter, Nikole. Inspired by the many minibikes in their garage, Nikole suggested her father put them to good use.

“You have enough to start a show with your collection alone,” Nikole had said.

Sebergandio, taking his daughter’s suggestion to heart, began what has now become a very popular show.

“I had a background producing car shows for over 30 years for a large company,” shared Sebergandio. “I felt that I would have to take a shot doing my own event at some point, it just had to be something new and cool; I didn’t want to produce another car show.”

Anyone interested in participating is encouraged to register a minibike for the chance to win a $100 prize. Registered participants will receive a LIL Indian rolling kit along with other surprises. However, only the top 10 bike owners will receive the $100 prize, and the top three will be selected by audience vote during the show.

Along with participant prizes, spectators will also be eligible to win free products during multiple giveaways throughout the day. Sebergandio said that the spectator giveaways and participant prizes would not be possible without the help of family and friends.

“My daughter Nikole and [my] wife Linda are my go-to sources on-site, handling the give-away raffle, official apparel sale, awards ceremony and trophy presentation,” explained Sebergandio. “We are extremely grateful for the local support from Lisa, Bill, Tommy and Team Campbell Automotive who help in more ways than I can count.”

Jeremy’s Diner, Scott’s Performance, The Trophy Shoppe, and Ralphs are all local businesses that have helped the Sebergandios draw attention to JMBR. National media sources such as HOT ROD Magazine, Roadkill Youtube videos, REV’N TV, and the folks at Steady Garage have also helped the event gain exposure by acting as key media and event partners, contributing their time and efforts.

“I can’t believe the support and notoriety we have received in four short years,” said Sebergandio. “I think we are capable of making this event an iconic annual happening here in the foothills growing for years to come.”

Due to the increased success so far, the event has been moved within CV Park to Hindenburg, a larger section of the park.

Anyone interested in participating can register their minibikes on the day of the event beginning at 7 a.m. or pre-register prior to the event online at www.joesminibikereunion.com. Standard registration cost is $20, but registrants can save $5 by stopping by Campbell Automotive in the 2700 block of Honolulu Avenue in Montrose before the show.

Any questions regarding the event can be directed to the 24/7 hotline at (818) 275-6040.

  Samantha SLAYBACK