Jersey bikers pumped up for Christmas

 

Bikers can get in a spin out west today now that a new BMX bike pump track has opened in St Brelade.

The tired old track at Le Creux has been replaced with a new purpose-built American-style course full of bumps and bends for BMX and mountain bikers to develop their skills for free.

Mountain biker Aaron Lappage, the man behind the project, hopes it will be the first of several pumptracks built around the Island that bikers can use and he's got big plans to build up the sport, set up an inter-parish league and support a big international biking event.

Aaron Lappage said: ‘It’s fantastic to see this project realised in time for Christmas to allow the kids to enjoy the track during their holidays. Safety has to come first in our sport and I am pleased to say we now have a safe course for riders to develop their skills. I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has contributed their time and support.”

The track has been built with funding from the Brick Foundation, the charitable arm of the Jersey Construction Council, as well as the Bosdet Foundation and private benefactors. 

Chairman of the Brick Foundation Steve Jewell said: “The pumptrack will create a dynamic new outdoor space for bike enthusiasts and young people to learn the sport and develop their skill at a competitive level.

“Jersey’s construction industry has put pedal to the metal once again to make this project a reality and make a real positive impact in the community.”

St Brelade Constable Steve Pallet believes it will be a great facility for the parish and young Islanders.

He said: “I am delighted that Aaron’s dream of a fit-for-purpose pumptrack has been realised in St Brelade.

“I think though it is important to stress that the track is specifically for mountain and BMX bikes and not motorbikes of any description."