BMX Track re launched with Racing at the Ballinrobe track
Last Saturday a large crowd gathered to witness the re launch of the Western Lakes BMX track. First opened in 2007 the track was beginning to show its age so with the financial support of the Mayo Enterprise Board a large scale redevelopment was organized. With BMX racing now an Olympic sport and cycling membership numbers at an all-time high now was the time to undertake such a task. As only one other outdoor track exists in the country this facility is a major addition to Western Lakes CC , Connacht cycling clubs and Ballinrobe general area.
The club Chairperson, Mr. David Mac Dermott, had the honor of welcoming local dignitaries and club members to witness a great day of racing at the track. With over 45 riders signing on for racing in 5 different age groups there was something there for everyone. Special thanks must go to the members of the Rathoath BMX club who came in large numbers to show the local members the level they should be aspiring too.
During the opening ceremony local counselors, Councilor's Burke, O Brien and Ryan, spoke at length on what a benefit the track was to the local area and hinder land and complemented the club on their great work acquiring such a facility. Special mention was also made to the list of sponsors who without them the club would not be able to survive. Representing the Mayo Enterprise Board was Neil Sheridan, who was instrumental in helping with funding. He noted for such a modest outlay of money how fantastic a facility the club were able to create.
Mayo Road safety officer Noel Gibbons commented "It is widely acknowledged that cycling is one of the best ways for people to achieve good health and fitness and it is one of the fastest growing sports in the world. Cycling regularly to work (and by extension, to school and on other regular journeys) has been shown to be the most effective activity an individual can do to improve health and increase longevity. It’s a great asset to have such a facility as this BMX track on our door step where young and not so young can develop and brush up on their bike handling skills so they can cycle more confidently and safely on our roads.
Special guest of honor on the day was the President of Cycling Ireland Mr. Rory Wyley Delighted to see the cycling club house as such a hive of activity he spoke about the benefit of BMX riding in developing bike skills in a safe environment before the young riders progress onto the open roads.
Before the track was officially opened and the racing began, the Chairperson took one last chance to thank all the club members, local contractors and especially the BMX committee who made all this possible.
The track is opened to every age group on Monday evening from 6.30 to 7.30 and is located in the Town underneath the Water towers.
See photos on http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151292316799288&set=a.10151292316214288.497205.330941294287&type=1&theater