They had to wait a long time, but after three years Hidde Drenth (12) and Koen Slomp (12) can race on their long-awaited pump track track. Hidde with his scooter and Koen with his BMX bike. And that goes fast.
The new pump track track is a long-cherished dream. A few years ago the boys came up with the idea of sending the mayor a letter. They both love scootering and BMXing, and according to them, Nieuw-Buinen could use a pump track track. In the letter they asked the mayor for a job, and with success.
Three years later, and countless signatures, funds and subsidies later, the track can be ridden on this weekend. “It’s very cool. We don’t really realize it yet. It still feels like a dream,” says Koen in disbelief. “I especially think the jumpline here is really cool,” says Hidde, pointing to a major disaster. “You can do all kinds of tricks on that, that’s really cool.”
The new pump track track in Nieuw-Buinen is a circuit with waves and curves. You can cross it with BMX bikes, scooters and skateboards, among other things. The name ‘pump track’ refers to the ‘pumping’ movement you have to make to move yourself forward. You don’t have to pedal.
Although Hidde and Koen immediately fly over the course at full speed, they also admit that it is not easy to cycle on a track like this. “You’re always busy, you can’t stand still for a moment,” says Hidde, panting. “I think this is the most challenging job so far,” Koen agrees.
The boys are not the only ones allowed on the track. Students from OBS De Poolster and OBS De Klister were also allowed to test the track during special BMX clinics. This includes Thijs from OBS De Poolster, who cycles around the track with a big grin. “I think it’s really cool,” he says. “I can also go here now, if my mountain bike doesn’t fall,” he laughs.
According to the boys, the wait for the pump track track was completely worth it. Now that they know what a letter to the mayor can do, they have some ideas for the future. “A water tap, maybe some benches or a big half pipe,” Hidde chuckles. When asked whether the mayor can expect a letter from the boys in the future, they laugh. “Yes!”