SOON TO BE DEMOLISHED POOL TO HOST WORLD-CLASS BMX RIDERS AND THE LOCAL COMMUNITY
On 14th May 2011 Nike and the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham will launch The Pool – an innovative project that will create a state-of-the-art BMX park by refurbishing a public swimming pool that is due to be closed and demolished. Nike will be providing free access to this unique freestyle BMX facility from the 16th May to the 12th June.
The Pool launch will see world-class BMX riders visit the Dagenham Pool to provide a high energy start to its life as a temporary BMX park. The opening jam will include ten teams of four riders, with each team led by a leading name from the world of freestyle BMX.
The Pool isn’t just for committed BMX riders – anybody can visit to try out this growing sport. The London Borough of Barking and Dagenham will be inviting schools and youth groups to attend scheduled taster sessions with experienced freestyle BMX coaches on hand. The current baby pool has been developed to be the ideal training area for those new to BMX riding and bikes will be available to hire at no cost. Trained supervisors will be in place to assist riders and make sure they are participating to a level that matches their experience and ability.
Simon Charlesworth, Brand Lead Nike Action Sports, outlines the goals for the project: “We wanted to develop something that excited BMX fans in and around the area, created a surge of interest in the sport and served the people of Barking and Dagenham. The Pool perfectly encapsulates the youthful energy, creativity and self-expression that characterises not only the world of BMX but also the wider action sports community. We are hugely grateful to the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham for sharing our vision for the sport and for their assistance in creating this unique BMX park.”
Councillor Bert Collins, Cabinet Member for Culture and Sport, London Borough of Barking and Dagenham comments further: “This was an outstanding opportunity to get a world-class BMX park set up right here in Dagenham. It’s a great chance for our young people to give the sport a go and learn from some of the world’s best competitors. With the 2012 Olympic Games little more than a year away and the new Becontree Heath Leisure Centre opening in a matter of weeks, this is an exciting time for sport in Barking and Dagenham.”
Nike and London Borough of Barking and Dagenham hope to inspire a new generation of freestyle BMX participation with a lasting local legacy for the sport long after The Pool has closed on 12th June. After this date the BMX bikes will be donated to local schools and community groups to help young people in the area to continue their interest in the sport. A permanent BMX facility will be erected once Dagenham Pool has been demolished, leaving a lasting legacy for local residents.
Dagenham Swimming Pool is closing to make way for the new Becontree Heath Leisure Centre, opening at the end of May. The last day of swimming at Dagenham Pool was on 25th April.
