All hands to the pump as GVC apply for new track
DELANCEY PARK could become an even more comprehensive cycling hub if a plan by the Guernsey Velo Club comes to fruition.
The Velo Club have submitted a planning application for the park that will convert the derelict tennis court area into a pump track feature, rounded off by benches and further landscaping.
A pump track contains a series of rollers and banked turns that encourage the use of bodily movements – ‘pumping’ – rather than pedalling to negotiate the loop. Such tracks are popular internationally as a means of improving bike handling skills.
GVC development officer Paul de Garis confirmed that the plans had been in place since before his appointment one year ago.
‘Delancey Park is well-used by the GVC,’ he said.
‘With what we have done for Flyers, it’s 140 kids there on a Wednesday night in the summer from May to August.
‘We use it for mountain bike races, we’ve used it for cyclocross, and we use it for our own road criterium races through the summer. Delancey is going to be used in the Island Games for [criterium] mountain biking.
‘It goes to show what the park is offering in terms in cycling ... it’s a good area and it’s an area which can be used for something a bit more than what it is at the moment.’
Given de Garis’ intention to eventually introduce BMX to the domestic calendar, he called the track a ‘step in the right direction’ for that discipline.
Yet he expects the pump track, which would be available for free public use, to benefit anyone from junior riders to experienced seniors.
‘It’s exciting, and it’s another step forward for cycling in the island as well,’ he added.
‘It would be massive for cycling in the island.’
The GVC are now looking for support to help raise funds for the plans, which are being led by former club president Mark Smith in conjunction with Velosolutions.
