Documentary Second Run Receives Emmy Nomination
The film featuring BMX rider Matt Wilhelm earns a regional Emmy nod ahead of the October 24 awards ceremony in Chicago.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Extreme Sports
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The documentary Second Run has been nominated for a regional Emmy Award by the Chicago/Midwest chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. The film highlights the career and life of professional BMX rider Matt Wilhelm.
Why it matters
The nomination marks a significant recognition for a production that chronicles the unique journey of a flatland BMX athlete. It showcases the dedication involved in mastering a sport that requires intense discipline and technical skill.
The nomination is for the Outstanding Achievement for Sports Story - Short Form Content category. It follows Wilhelm's career path that spans from his childhood in Oak Lawn to his national television appearance in 2011.
The players
Matt Wilhelm
He is a professional flatland BMX rider and motivational speaker based in Naperville.
National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences
This is a non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of television and the promotion of creative leadership in the industry.
The details
The project originated when a producer at Charter noticed Wilhelm during one of his riding presentations. Wilhelm honed his signature flatland style by training in confined indoor spaces during the harsh winter months.
Timeline
Matt Wilhelm began motivational speaking at schools in 2005.
Wilhelm appeared on America's Got Talent in 2011.
The regional Emmy Awards take place on October 24, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This Emmy nomination elevates the regional profile of sports-focused documentary filmmaking in the Chicago area. It highlights the growing importance of short-form athletic narratives within the local media landscape.
Local viewers can track the awards progress to see if the project secures a win in the short-form content category. The nomination serves as a highlight for fans of extreme sports who follow the competitive and creative career of Matt Wilhelm.
The takeaway
This nomination highlights the evolution of professional athletes into compelling subjects for high-quality storytelling. It encourages local viewers to seek out regional productions that showcase the depth of talent within their own community.
What happens next
The regional Emmy Awards will be held in Chicago on October 24, 2026, where the final winners in each category will be announced.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in local athletic media coverage at Extreme Sports.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NCTV17.
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