The Kesgrave Pump Track: A Community's Dream Comes to Life
The sun shone brightly on a special day in Kesgrave as hundreds of cyclists and enthusiasts gathered for the grand opening of the new pump track. This state-of-the-art facility, funded by the local plant and machinery hire firm TRU7 Group, has been a long-awaited dream for the community.
One of the key figures in making this dream a reality was Guy Nicholls, the chair of TRU7. His passion and dedication were evident as he cut the ribbon, marking the official launch. Nicholls expressed his emotions, stating, 'I am a bit emotional. It's fantastic to see all these people and the wonderful weather.'
The track itself is a masterpiece, designed by the expert team at Clarke & Kent contractors, who were responsible for the BMX track at the 2012 London Olympics. It features a continuous circuit of rollers, berms, and linked turns, providing an ideal environment for riders to build confidence, balance, and bike-handling skills. The smooth asphalt surface was a hit with the riders, with Albie Dare describing it as 'nice and smooth.'
The pump track's impact on the community is profound. Nicholls' vision was to encourage kids to get out and exercise, reducing their screen time. He emphasized, 'We just wanted to do something nice for the area to get kids out on push bikes and exercising.' This sentiment was shared by Neal Beecroft-Smith from Kesgrave Town Council, who highlighted the town's long-standing aspiration for such a facility.
The track's popularity was evident with riders like Oscar Sanders, who traveled from London to experience it. Sanders, a nine-year-old enthusiast, found it 'quite nice,' and was determined to visit every pump track in the country. Theodore Burnett, another young rider, praised the track's speed and ease, particularly the step-ups.
Professional mountain biker Jono Jones was impressed by the track's inclusivity. He stated, 'It's brilliant. Stuff like this is so cool. There's no barrier to entry, making it a perfect gathering place for riders.' Jones also commended TRU7 Group's commitment to the community, emphasizing the track's potential for fostering connections and promoting an active lifestyle.
The Kesgrave Pump Track is more than just a cycling facility; it's a symbol of community spirit and a testament to the power of local initiatives. As the sun set on the opening day, the track buzzed with excitement, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. This project has not only provided a space for riders to enjoy but has also brought the community together, creating a sense of pride and accomplishment.
