from YAPRap July 2004
by Wollondilly Youth Services Network
April 3rd 2004 was the grand opening of the Tahmoor Freestyle BMX Dirt Park. This style of facility is a first in Australia. The park was officially opened by the Mayor; Col Mitchel at 10am and the day was attended by approximately 400 people with 100 registered riders, some from as far as Coffs Harbor & Newcastle. This was the moment that the BMeXicans had been waiting for during the last two years.
The group was developed in March 2002 with an aim to improve sporting facilities in the local area with an emphasis on freestyle and extreme sports. They soon became known as the BMeXicans Lobby Group, consisting of 25 young guys, 5 of these guys aged from 11 to 16, became the key players in the lobbing process. To see their plans of greater facilities the guys gained support from Planet X, The Australian Sports Commission, Internationally recognized professional BMX rider and editor of 2020 BMX magazine; Mike Daly, as well as local professional riders and a high level of community support.
Even with this level of recognition there were still those people in the community who attempted to bring down the moral of the group with public comments such as "they're only teenagers, they don't know what they want" or "they have no respect, they'll destroy what ever you give them." These comments only made the boys more determined. With assistance from Mike the guys developed plans for the track that included a beginners run, intermediates and a pro level to cater for all rider abilities.
This group have opened the doors for youth participation within this community, to stay committed to a single idea for such a substantial is amazing for any group and the BMeXicans have proven the positive attributes of young people in the community.
The BMeXicans are hoping to gain funding to become accredited freestyle coaches to continue their work within the community.
Contact:
Wollondilly Youth Services Network
(02) 4683 2776
wysn@internode.on.net
