Developments at the track!!!

Find all the photos by clicking the link below:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/britishcyclingphotos/sets/72157623652106774/show/

(Images and words are by Richard Robotham at 'rhodospin' photography, the ever brilliant photographer who is present at most B.C. BMX events throughout the year.)

This article was posted on the British Cycling web-site:

The new track is being constructed by Bike Track who are Britain's leading specialist with over 20 years experience in the construction of BMX and MTB tracks and courses. Speaking with the Bike Track guys they are all very confident about completing the track on time. They exude an obvious passion about the project and the sport and they feel those who will use the track will be equally as zealous once they get on it for the first time. The track will consist of four straights with lots of jumps of varying degrees of difficulty and three berms. So far Bike Track have constructed the four metre start ramp complete with a gradual climb up for riders to access the start. From this point two full straights and two complete berms have been constructed. Currently under construction is the third berm, leaving the final two straights to be formed. The Bike Track guys were not giving too much away about the jumps remaining to be constructed but judging by the works so far it will be an exhilarating ride and thrilling for those who watch.

Speaking with Gary Lawrence of Lawfield Contracts Ltd., he said he was very pleased with the progress and most impressed with the construction so far. He added that Bike Track were on program to complete the works. The progress with the fit-out of the changing rooms and Redditch Premier's Club facilities were nearing completion with only minor works to be finished. This will be a much welcome building for those racing at the venue to enable them to change before and after competition.

Chatting with Benn Thombs, the Redditch Premiers Chairman he commented on the facilities and track as follows:
"So far the majority of the work that has been done is to the clubhouse. I had a look around this the other day and it definitely surpasses our expectations. The work has pretty much finished inside. It now consists of male and female showers and toilets, a first aid room, disabled toilet, bike store, an office, and a club-room with adjoining kitchen. There will also be locker facilities. The building has been designed perfectly for our needs and this is something that no other club in the country can boast. We feel that this should be the norm for our sport now. A more professional approach to BMX facilities is what we need to drag BMX racing into the 21st Century, and give it the status is deserves.

"Work on the track itself is starting to take shape. This is something we are keeping a close eye on, as we know that the track is what makes the facility and what will attract people to our facility. We are pleased with the size of the start hill; it's a four metre hill so bigger than most tracks in the UK. We have tried to make the first straight fast for everyone, but put some decent size jumps in it so it's still challenging for the elites. The first corner is looking big, which is what we wanted. On my last site visit the drainage was almost in and the Bike Track guys were close to starting the other 3 straights.

"Overall we are really happy with the way the build project has run so far. We have regular site meetings with BC, Redditch Borough Council, Bike Track and the main contractors. The whole process has been very professional, something we intend to carry through to when the facility is operational. "We look forwarding to seeing everyone down at Redditch from May onwards. We are working on one or two things behind the scenes which could be huge for the facility. So stay tuned for more updates."

With several weeks of track construction remaining one can sense the excitement of all those involved with the project and hopefully this will be reflected over the coming seasons with Regional, National and hopefully even European or International events. BMXing is certainly coming home to its British birth place and this much-needed venue will definitely be a long awaited boost to the sport within Redditch and for the British Cycling West Midlands region.

With a scheduled club meeting, being held tomorrow night at Redditch Town Hall, watch this space for more club news, track developments and Membership details.
R.P.