GEORGE NEWS - A powerful example of what can be achieved when a community joins hands and rolls up its sleeves was recently seen during the upgrades and repairwork at the bike track at Ground Zero, on the corner of Arbour Road and Camphersdrift Street.
The track has been there for several years and has grown in popularity over time. It is especially popular among mountain bikers who enjoy learning new skills, showing off what they are capable of and enjoying the dirt jumps or pump track.
Jenny and Emile van Wyk, whose six-year-old son, Etienne, is one of the young riders, say the track is particularly popular with the youth. “It gives young people an opportunity to enjoy themselves in a safe environment.”
The project was driven by a community initiative.
According to Jenny, about 30 young mountain bikers joined in the upgrade efforts of the older riders at the track from 07:00 on Saturday 24 January. Several adults also lent a hand. The upgrades and repairs took a whole week to complete and are still being further improved and expanded.
Special recognition goes to Trystan Steytler of Pedal Maniacs, who has been the driving force behind the track’s development. Through his dedication, vision and hands-on effort, he has largely been responsible for designing and building the jumps over time.
His skills and experience, both in constructing and riding the features, have made him an invaluable part of the project. Steytler coaches young riders and helps them reach their full potential.
Jenny says with the added support from the community during the recent build weekend, as well as the use of earth-moving equipment, the track upgrades reached a whole new level. “This project would not have been possible without the support of local organisations and businesses,” she said.
She emphasises that there are already plans to expand the facility and build a dedicated children’s track, and encourages parents to get their children involved.
For more information, Jenny van Wyk and Pedal Maniacs may be followed on Facebook. Action-packed videos may also be viewed on YouTube on MTB Mini Boss, as well as Pedal Maniac’s respective YouTube channels.
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