Head up to Hastings skate park at White Rock Gardens on any given weekend and it is packed with BMXers, skaters and boarders.
It was only a few months ago that there was only a single ramp for the riders and skaters to use. The new facilities have delighted local users, although not one of the biggest in the country, it has been claimed by local BMXers to be one of the best to 'session'.
There is plenty of talent among the locals, including several professional BMXers some of them pictured here. Pick up any international BMX magazine and you'll probably find articles and photos of Hastings based riders.
BMX has had a strong presence in Hastings over the past few years. The infamous Backyard Jams were held in and around Hastings & St Leonards during the 90s, and organised by local riders. They attracted big crowds and the best riders from all over the world, with coverage from specialist BMX magazines to MTV.
Local business Backyard was involved in the consultation process for the skate park and is currently working with the Council to plan the biggest BMX freestyle event in the UK to be held in Hastings next year. This event is likely to attract the best riders from all around the world and will be held shortly after the World Championships in Cologne. There will be BMX trade stands, Playstation 2 pods and special club nights.
BMX and Inline Skating coaching sessions have already begun around the town and will soon be based at the skate park. This is especially exciting for young local BMXers who will be able to have tuition and ride alongside some of the UK's best known riders. The Council is also planning to consult with local people about improving the general image of, and leisure facilities at White Rock Gardens. This will explore a range of enhancements to the present park, and could be good news for the BMXers as well as users of all the other facilities in the park.
We have a reputation of producing good and professional riders with local businesses willing to play a strong part in promoting Hastings & St Leonards.
The Council would like to thank all of the skaters and riders who have been involved with the park, including the Young Persons Council, all of the local skate and bike shops and local businesses Seventies, Turner Cycles, Hastings Cycles and RE-AL. For more information please contact the Youth Sports Development Officer on 781189 or email sportsdevelopment@hastings.gov.uk
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This page last updated: 14/04/2002