Untitled
By (Author) Saya Sakakibara
Simon & Schuster Australia
Simon & Schuster Australia
28th October 2025
Australia
General
Non Fiction
Autobiography: sport
BMX cycling
Paperback
304
Width 153mm, Height 234mm
Saya Sakakibara triumphed over fear, self-doubt, and family tragedy to become an Olympic champion. Her journey will inspire you to face your fears and unlock your greatest potential.
A devastating accident left Saya terrified of the sport that had made her famous. After witnessing her brother Kai suffer a traumatic brain injury in the lead-up to the Tokyo Olympics, Saya was shaken to her core. The sport she once loved now felt too dangerous to continue. With six concussions and the haunting memories of crashes, Saya briefly decided to walk away from BMX.
But quitting wasnt so simple. Supported by her family Kai, who now dreams of Paralympic glory, and her parents who fear for their childrens safety Saya set out on a journey to rediscover her passion for BMX and face her deepest fears.
This is a story of resilience, self-discovery, and the determination to keep going when the road ahead feels uncertain. Sayas journey is a powerful reminder that overcoming fear and embracing the challenges along the way can lead to the greatest triumphs.
Saya Sakakibara, a four-time World Champion and seven-time NSW State Champion, grew up in a highly competitive environment alongside her brother, Kai, a pro racer. Sayas love for BMX racing blossomed at just four years old, attending practice sessions and races with Kai. Over her 15 years in the sport, Saya has amassed an impressive collection of titles, including five Australian National Championships and an Olympic Gold Medal. She credits her success to the support and challenges from her family especially her father, brother, and coaches who pushed her to reach her full potential and develop her own drive and motivation.