New pump track for riders of all ages
The new pump track in Cheddar has been officially opened, providing the community with a fantastic facility for riders of all ages.
The vision of charity Ride Mendips, the pump track dream was made a reality due to a number of donations – spearheaded by our donation of all the aggregates and asphalt needed for the project.
Hundreds of riders and supporters of all ages took part in the launch event, which included open sessions and a timed lap competition, and concluded with an evening celebration which saw local resident and pump track enthusiast Jack Bessant, bassist/songwriter with rock band Reef, play with his band the Cheddar Experiment.
The pump track is suitable for bikes, scooters and skateboards and riders use their arms and legs to pump and gain momentum to carry them around the circuit. The track is located adjacent to Cheddar Skate Park on Sharpham Road, designed and built by Velosolutions UK, if suitable for riders of all skill levels.
Grant Garge of Ride Mendips said: “It has taken three years for the project to come to fruition so it’s awesome to see the pump track dream become reality. The launch event was a massive success and we’ve had amazing feedback from children, parents and expert riders about the quality and versatility of the track. It has already become a well-loved facility in the village.”
“We are very grateful to all the people involved in the two Cheddar Extravanganza events that helped us to raise over £7,000 as well as all of the other supporters.
“By providing all the stone and asphalt Heidelberg Materials saved us almost £50,000, while British Cycling awarded us £35,000 as part of the Places to Ride fund, National Grid £20,000 from their community projects fund, Hinkley Point C £10,000 from the HPC community fund, Sedgemoor District Council £2,500, Pedruth Paddocks £1,500 and The Mendip Rotary Club £500.”
“We are also excited to start running the New Cheddar Shredderz bike club, as part of the Ride Mendips charity, later this month where we will provide free coaching sessions for young people on the track.”
Unit manager Simon Parkes added: “The turnout for the launch event was testament to the support this fantastic project has from the local community, and we are delighted to be able to be a part of its success. I am sure that it is a facility that will be enjoyed by riders of all ages for years to come.”