The conversation around motocross in the UK has active for years, with many passionate voices contributing their thoughts. While some have expressed frustration, pointing fingers at various organisations, it's time to shift our focus toward positive action and tangible improvements.
Back in 2013, I shared my insights on this topic, and while some things remain the same, there’s an exciting opportunity to address what’s often overlooked. With Mervyn and myself having extensive experience in rider development across different countries, we’ve seen first hand the diverse strategies that foster success. While financial support is essential, there’s another crucial element we need to spotlight.
In the UK motocross industry, the backbone is the novice to intermediate adult riders. This is fantastic news because a growing and engaged community is vital for the sport’s mainstream success. However, a challenge arises: many tracks are adjusted to suit the majority, often at the expense of the expert, pro, and developing youth riders.
Tracks are frequently toned down to minimise injuries and insurance claims, but this leaves our top riders without the challenging environments they need to hone their skills. Take, for example, the Canada Heights British Championship round two. The whoops and steep-faced jumps posed significant challenges for many top-level British riders. The reality is, they lack adequate training grounds within the UK to practice these obstacles.
Years ago Mervyn built a facility that was beyond extreme, it was featured on next generation 2 dvd and where Max Anstie honed his skills. Years later Max had an MXGP replica track built with specific jumps and obstacles that matched what he would be racing on including the giant quad jump replica from Qatar. But this was all done privately and Max has done whatever it takes to get to where he is. As you can see from the picture below, Max’s training ground was a special place!
Below is the same place that Max upgraded to create an MXGP replica.
When British riders compete in the GPs or EMX, the question arises: where in the UK can they train to meet these high standards? The gap in facilities and specialised training is evident. Preparing for major races like Matterley Basin requires access to tracks that simulate the jumps and obstacles riders will face. Our youth need a place to learn and master these skills and to prepare mentally for all environments and obstacles.
That's why, as trainers, Mervyn Anstie and I are dedicated to building facilities that nurture these skills progressively. While we've often had to travel abroad to find suitable training grounds, imagine the possibilities if we could establish such facilities right here in the UK and combined with the knowledge to take the riders to the very highest level in the sport this could be a fantastic opportunity to prepare the next generation of motocross champions.
If you share this vision and are eager to contribute to creating a world-class training facility for UK pro riders and developing youth, we’d love to hear from you. Together, we can stop pointing fingers at what's lacking and start building what’s needed for the future of UK motocross.
Join us in this exciting endeavour to elevate the sport and support our riders to reach the highest levels. Let's create a legacy of excellence in UK motocross.
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