Western Titans try out the new facility

On track

Eyes of Europe fix on Scotland's new BMX centre

Scotland’s newest biking facility - the £3.7m Glasgow BMX Centre in Knightswood - will host its first major international event today (August 10th) as part of the Glasgow 2018 European Championships - an exciting new multi-sport event bringing together some of the continent's leading sports.

But while it is Europe’s top BMX stars who will make the headlines this week it will be local riders including the Western Titans BMX Racing Club who will be using the Olympic-standard track on a daily basis over the coming months and years.

The new BMX Centre is the only permanent venue that was built for use in the Championships, and is Scotland's only World and Olympic standard BMX track. Completion of the venue means Glasgow is now the only city in the world with venues capable of hosting all four Olympic cycling discipline events (BMX, Mountain Biking, Road and Track) within its boundary.

Justine Cameron, Club Secretary for the Western Titans, said: “The new track is absolutely immense – we were totally overwhelmed when we saw it for the first time. Riding on the track has been incredible as many of our riders have never seen an eight metre ramp before let alone ridden one: it means we can train at a completely different level than we were before.”

National number one Molly Shearer (16) and number two Harrison Bell (10) are members of the Western Titans and Justine is clear that the new BMX Centre will only serve to help the youngsters build on their success.

She said: “This Centre is exactly what Scotland needs. Having a facility like this is perfect for our young talent and I have absolutely no doubt that this track will produce medal winners.”

The facility, which was funded by Glasgow City Council, sportscotland, Glasgow 2018, and HSBC/British Cycling, will be open for use by the local community after the conclusion of the 2018 European Championships. Glasgow Life will manage the facility on behalf of Glasgow City Council, and equipment will be available for hire.

Stewart Harris, Chief Executive of sportscotland, said: “The BMX Centre in Knightswood marks the delivery of another significant sports facility for Scotland thanks to great partnership working with Glasgow City Council, Glasgow 2018 and HSBC/British Cycling, and investment from the National Lottery. We are delighted to have played our part in bringing this project to life.

A new generation

“This centre will not only allow Scotland to attract more major sporting events, but will also have a significant role to play in developing this exciting sport. By providing entry level access to beginners alongside top athletes honing their skills on world-class tracks, a new generation will be inspired. Most importantly, it will be an asset to the local community and it is terrific to see Western Titans already making it their home.”

Councillor David McDonald, Depute Leader of Glasgow City Council and Chair of Glasgow Life, said: "Watching the construction of this new BMX Centre has been fantastic – it’s hard to believe we’ve gone from the ground-breaking to riders being on the track in just six months. The feedback we’ve had from the Western Titans is brilliant, and I’m confident this Centre will be very well used by the local community. Having a world-class facility on our doorstep will help to inspire a new generation of young cyclists to take up the sport, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.”

The main track accommodates riders of all ages and abilities, and features an eight and five metre start ramps for advanced riders and competition use. There is also a smaller pump track suitable for learners, and both tracks are fully floodlit. In addition, the BMX Centre features changing facilities, a meeting room, a car park and an access road from Archerhill Road.

Find out more

About the Glasgow BMX Centre.

Share links

Related Articles

DuncanScott2-SF.jpg

Playing our part

Duncan Scott propelled to glory by world-class expertise 

Read More
The Via Sponsorship conference is coming to Glasgow in March 2019

Mutual benefits

How can sponsorship benefit sport and communities in Scotland?

Read More
Duncan Scott celebrates his gold medal win at Gold Coast 2018

Championship fever

Excitement builds as Scotland welcomes Europe's best

Read More