HB BMX Club opens new all-wheels pump track

A new track has opened at the Hawke’s Bay BMX Club in Havelock North that will provide a space for even more activities on wheels – not just BMX riders.

The club officially opened the new pump track this weekend, beside their existing track in Romanes Park that has been home to BMX training and racing for the past 13 years since the club was formed.

The current limestone track covers 7000 m2 and has been built and designed to National BMX standards, and will host the BMXNZ National Championships in March 2024.

In 2021, the Club saw the need for an all-wheel track for the community, and to accommodate it Hastings District Council extended the area leased to the Club.

BMX Club previous president and life member Jason Waite said the current BMX track did not allow scootering or skateboarding as it could damage the specialised surface.

“Having a pump track accessible on the same site, that is suitable for all wheels will mean even more users can enjoy an appropriate place to participate in their chosen activity.

“Cycling is such an important part of all kids’ lives, such as riding to school or socialising with friends. The pump track can help build the bike skills needed so they can safely commute to places on their bikes or progress their skills to then ride the Hawke’s Bay mountain bike tracks.”

As with the existing limestone track, generous funding support has enabled the new pump track to be built, thanks to Lotteries Commission, Pub Charity, Eastern and Central Community Trust, New Zealand Community Trust, Hastings District Council, Lion Foundation and First Light Community Foundation.

The pump track was designed and built by Velosolutions.

Hastings mayor Sandra Hazlehurst attended the opening of the new track and said it was great to see the new development up and running.

“Our Council began redeveloping Romanes Park to include a new public toilet, playground, carparking and sports fields in 2014.

“Part of this redevelopment included demolishing the old bike jumps and building the new limestone BMX track, thanks to community fundraising and local sponsorship.

“We have seen how much this track is used and enjoyed – the members of the Hawke’s Bay BMX Club are so committed to supporting this sport in Hastings and it’s wonderful to see so many riders using it on a regular basis.

“This new pump track will mean even more people will be able to get out and about and have fun while being active, it fits well with our Heretaunga Arakura – Hastings Pathways to Schools programme, and it adds to the other opportunities people have on our iWays.

“Our thanks to the volunteer members who drove this project and dedicate so much time and energy to the club’s activities.”

4 September 2023

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