NEW TRICKS FOR GOOGONG AS PUMP TRACK OPENS
Saturday, August 10, 2024
New addition to Googong Sports Precinct
Googong joint developers, Peet and Mirvac, have today unveiled a brand-new, asphalt pump track as part of its growing list of fitness amenities in the township, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience for BMX and mountain bike riders of all ages and skill levels.
The pump track, located on Glenrock Drive (near Austin Grove), stretches a combined 2,600 sq metres and includes a beginner track (62m) and an intermediate track (250m). With bumps and rollers ranging from 500mm to over 1 metre, it promises an exhilarating ride for everyone, from young children finding their balance to seasoned riders looking to push their limits.
The grand opening of the facility included a launch event consisting of live music and food vendors, alongside demonstrations by professional mountain bike group Dynamic Motivation, who delivered skills workshops to novice riders to help them get the best out of the track.
The asphalt surface ensures a smooth, all-weather riding experience with minimal maintenance, allowing riders to enjoy the track year-round. The pump track represents a significant investment in the community, with construction and landscaping costs totalling approximately $500,000. It was designed by Dirtz, a team of accomplished cyclists who specialise in the design and construction of off-road cycling facilities.
Brett Barnes, Dirtz Director and Australian ranked BMX & mountain bike athlete said, “The most important component of our construction process is our base course rider testing. We have based our grading of each area of the track upon the International Mountain Biking Association trail rating guidelines, these are not specific to pump tracks but they examine the level of difficulty compared to trail rating. The Googong Pump Jump Track is one of the best tracks in NSW, as it caters to all ages and all skills.”
Googong Project Director, Malcolm Leslie, said:
“The pump track is a fantastic addition to Googong's sporting and activity facilities. As Googong continues to grow, we are committed to creating vibrant, active spaces that cater to all ages and abilities. The track is a testament to that commitment, offering a space where the community can come together, challenge themselves, and most importantly have fun.”
The new pump track is the permanent solution to the temporary facility that opened on Heazlett Street in 2020 and will sit alongside the township's impressive sports precinct. At completion, the sports precinct will also be home to six netball courts, an indoor sports and aquatic centre, eight tennis courts, seven ovals (including an athletics track), a skate park, putt putt golf, frisbee golf, along with BBQ facilities, toilets and parking. The precinct is also proposed to include the Queanbeyan Whites Sports and Recreation Club.
Mic Longhurst MTB Instructor and CEO of Dynamic Motivation said, ‘’Pump tracks are growing in popularity as a great way to get both kids and adults out riding bikes, developing skills and improving fitness. This track is the first of this quality in the region and will attract riders from the local community and across Canberra to come and ride. It’s a great asset to the Googong area.’’
Googong is a joint venture by leading Australian developers Peet and Mirvac and is currently home to almost 8,000 people of an expected 18,000 at completion.