Tuesday 20 March 2018

Foxton Beach Pump Track opens with celebration

Cyclists, skateboarders and scooter riders of all ages and abilities gathered in Foxton Beach on Sunday 18 March for the opening of the new pump track at Holben Reserve.

Horowhenua District Mayor, Michael Feyen, and Foxton Community Board Chair, David Roache, gave locals and visitors alike a warm welcome and declared the track officially open.

Following a blessing of the new facility, the public were treated to a display of pro-riding by Southstar Adventures before getting the opportunity to try the track out for themselves.

Those present enjoyed a sausage sizzle provided by Foxton Beach School as they tried out the new track, which is the largest asphaltic-surfaced pump track in New Zealand at over 50 metres squared.

A pump track is a circuit containing berms and ‘rollers’ (mounds) that riders can use, instead of pedalling, to gain and keep momentum.

Horowhenua District Council Parks and Property Project Lead, Zane Bull, said the new facility offers track circuits for all ages and abilities, including a track for children aged two to four years and loops for beginners, intermediate and advanced riders. The design allows people to progress from the easy loop to the more difficult ones as they develop their skills, and the asphalt surface accommodates skateboarders and scooters, as well as bikes. There are directional arrows to prevent collisions.

The next stage of development will add landscaping to improve the track’s aesthetic appeal. The facility will also offer a drinking fountain and a viewing area with seating.

“It’s a great resource for families and visitors to Foxton Beach that complements the facilities already available at Holben Reserve,” Mr Bull said.

“Everyone had a good time, and it was great to see so many people out enjoying the new track. We encourage everyone to bring a bike, scooter or skateboard, get their safety gear on, and give it a try!”

ENDS

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