Track riders implore electric vehicle users: ‘please don’t wreck it again’.
BMX bike racers have issued a plea to local electric scooter and remote-controlled car users: please don’t use their beloved Pineham track.
The city’s historic circuit recently re-opened six months after a devastating flood severely damaged it. But local bicycle racers are worried that e-bikes and remote-controlled cars will swiftly wreck the freshly laid surface.
The community facility was closed last September after being destroyed by flood water but re-opened after MK BMX Racing Club secured thousands of pounds of funding to carry out repairs.
The club hopes to resume regular coaching and practice sessions as soon as possible, and the track is due to host hundreds of riders from across the country in a regional-level race at the end of June.
But club members still have concerns about illegal use of the track by electric-powered vehicles such e-bikes and remote-controlled cars, which damages the surface and has to be repaired by volunteers before cyclists can ride safely.
Powered vehicles repeatedly damaged the track when it was open last summer, and part of this month’s resurfacing work had to be repeated when large remote-controlled cars were used on the track.
“Thanks to hard work by volunteers and a generous grant from Sport England, this historic community facility is finally back in action,” said club chairman Paul Ritchie.
“But it won’t be open for long if people continue to trash it by using electric-powered bikes, scooters and remote-controlled cars here.
“Last year, flooding meant the track was only open for 100 days – and before literally every practice, coaching session and race that we hosted, volunteers had to spend time repairing damage caused by inappropriate and illegal use.
“I know it’s frustrating that there aren’t enough facilities for everyone who wants to use e-bikes or RC cars, but BMX racing tracks are simply not designed for powered vehicles of any shape or size and the sign by the track entrance clearly states this.
“The increase in flooding over recent years means it’s a constant struggle just to keep MK’s track usable for bicycles. Please, please, please don’t make things harder by using powered vehicles on it.”
Milton Keynes BMX Racing Club has been coaching riders from complete beginners to world championship finalists at the Pineham track for more than 40 years. The club recently secured a substantial sponsorship from MK-based cycle distributor Madison to help ensure its immediate future.
The club is also seeking support to relocate the track due to the flood damage, and you can show your support by signing a petition here. More information about the club at: mkbmxracing@gmail.com or the club’s Facebook page.
