The newly revamped BMX track at Better Maindy Centre is already proving a hit with cyclists after opening this week.

Work has been taking place over the past month on installing a new drainage system, laying a tarmac surface and making reprofiling adjustments to the runs. The track has been made more suitable for younger riders. The re-design and re-surfacing of the track has been executed by a company that has built over 160 tracks of this type across the UK and as far as Dubai and Australia.

The latest addition to Better Cardiff’s folio of sports activities for the local community has received a big thumbs up from Welsh Cycling, the body promoting cycling in all its forms in Wales.

Will Soffe, Go-Ride Instructor, Welsh Cycling, commented: “BMX is a fast-paced and thrilling sport which relies on talent, nerve and fitness. Professional BMX riders display strength, bravery and skill as well as fast reaction times and an iron resolve. Facilities like the Maindy Track are an important first step to introducing young people into the sport of BMX and giving them crucial bike handling skills which are invaluable in any form of cycling they wish to pursue. The next phase is creating a full-sized BMX race track which can host officially sanctioned British Cycling BMX competitions in Cardiff.”

Cardiff BMX Racing Club will be holding sessions which will introduce riders to the sport of BMX and create the opportunity for riders to progress their cycling in a fun and safe environment.
Hugh Copping, Chairman Cardiff BMX Racing Club, commented:

“Cardiff BMX Racing club was set up in 2017 and and we have a growing community of riders that meet regularly. Our riders have a wide range of abilities from those just getting used to BMX Racing for the first time through to those about to go to the World Championships in Belgium this year. We are proud of this fact and encourage riders of all ages and abilities to join.

“The redevelopment of the pump track at Maindy will be a valuable asset to the community and will be key to helping riders gain the confidence and skills to ride on a full size race track. Within Wales, the popularity of BMX racing is growing fast, so facilities are much needed.”
Anthony Hayes, Manager at Better Maindy Centre, said:
“Better Cardiff is very pleased to add this latest facility to its growing list of sport and fitness resources across our eight venues in Cardiff. BMX racing is taking place on a growing number of purpose-built outdoor and indoor tracks throughout the country as new clubs, tracks and competitions have sprung up. The sport is provides both physical and mental health benefits and this pump track will help provide opportunities to encourage new riders as they take to the sport.”
The track is open alongside centre opening hours and is free to use. Paid coaching sessions will be provided and will be advertised on the Better website.
The refurbishment work was funded by a Welsh Government capital grant though Sport Wales.