Despite a resume that would consume a ream of paper, York native Ernest Lefever does not make Wikipedia's best-of-york list.
Wikipedia gives a list of 74 people from York with enough world-wide contributions to make the team.
Obviously, the list has some holes.
I recognized - and have written - about many of those listed.
But I didn't recall at least one name - Kevin Jones, BMX rider - a freestyle BMX rider... .
The Wiki entry says that he was raised in York and his riding is featured in the popular Dorkin' in York videos now offered as a box set:
Around this time (late 1980s), the now-film maker Eaton would release the first of a series of freestyle BMX videos named Dorkin' In York. The Dorkin' videos, as they would become known as, captured equal parts of flatland, ramps, and street riding. The series would continue on for years to come, showcasing the latest tricks from Jones and the rest of the Plywood Hoods, as well as coverage from major contests and some more private jams and practice sessions. Eaton recently released the entire series in a DVD boxset titled Dorkin' in York - The Complete DVD Collection.
Jones even appeared on national TV in 1990, endorsing Kudos granola bars.
Well, kudos to forever York countian Kevin Jones.
It should be mentioned here that Kevin Jones is one of the most, if not THE most respected flatland freestyle bike riders of all time. Kevin is known to have invented MANY, MANY flatland freestyle tricks that changed the course of riding forever. In the mid 1980's, flatlander riders were performing mostly stationary,
pogo-like tricks on their bikes. Kevin introduced a
totally innovative, rolling, fluid style of riding
that, in those times, shocked the world. His influence lives on to this day, with a high percentage of
flatlanders worldwide are still performing variations of his tricks. Kevin has continued to ride and innovate through three decades. He is literally a virtuoso on a bike; true, rare talent.
While many local residents may not realize it,
York, PA is a legendary location due to Kevin Jones- the father of modern flatland freestyle BMX.