The official track for the 2015 UCI BMX World Championships at Heusden-Zolder, Belgium, has been completed. Located on the former Formula 1 track Circuit Zolder, the Supercross track even bears certain resemblances to a car racetrack: as well as being big and fast, its three corners have been given names. The inspiration? Three of the fastest women BMXers in the world.
After flying down the 8m start hill, riders will tackle the first corner, the Buchanan Bend, named after Australian rider and World Champion in 2012 and 2013 Caroline Buchanan. Once past the pro-section, the 2nd corner awaits, the Pajon Curva, named after Colombia’s Mariana Pajon, reigning Olympic Champion and World Champion. Before the last straight is the 3rd corner or Post Corner; this is named after American rider Alise Post 2nd at the 2012 and 2014 World Championships and 1st Pro Elite Women USABMX 2014.
The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), riders and national coaches all had an input in the development of the track to ensure it meets the highest standards. Construction was carried out by BMX Zolder’s official French track builders ProTracks.
UCI BMX Coordinator Kevin MacCuish commented: “There is no doubt that this track will produce some exciting racing. It is large and challenging and we will witness some extremely fast and spectacular riding. The last three editions of the UCI BMX World Championships have been held on more compact, indoor tracks so 2015 will provide a different style of racing. It is exciting to return to an outdoor venue.”
Some facts and figures:
· 380m long track
· Concrete 8m and cobblestone 5m start ramps
· 2 separate pro-sections on 1st and 2nd straights
· Lip of the first jump for both 8m and 5m start hills on asphalt
Riders will be able to test the track in race conditions at the UEC BMX European Cup Rounds 1 & 2 from the 3rd till 5th April 2015 at BMX Zolder. The 2015 UCI BMX World Championships will take place from July 21st to 25th.