Reade Tests Out BMX Olympic Track

Last updated : 22 August 2011 By Ziad Chaudhry

BMX Cycling ace Shanaze Reade reckons she can return to Stratford’s Olympic Park as a London 2012 gold medal winner, writes Ziad Chaudry.

The 22-year-old British Olympic medal prospect and reigning BMX Time Trial World Champion from Crewe had her first taste of the brand new BMX track situated in the heart of the impressive-looking Olympic Park complex as she comfortably clinched victory in UCI BMX Supercross Women’s World Cup Olympic Test event last Saturday.

She dominated the eight-rider final throughout to win in 38.275secs while current world cup points leader from New Zealand Sarah Walker, Australia’s Caroline Buchanan and American Arielle Martin occupied the next three placings.

After the race Reade rated this victory as high as her 2010 world championship success: “It feels absolutely amazing, what better way is there to prepare for next year,” she said.

“I’ve won several world championships, but I tell you this is better than anything.”

The 2,500 strong sell-out crowd had to wait for nearly four hours for the rain to clear before finally witnessing and enjoying the world’s top BMX riders speed-bump peddling through the innovative sand-drenched 470 metre course.

“I want to thank all the British fans for getting behind all the athletes and for hanging around,” added Reade. They made racing so much easier. I have not experienced such a big and enthusiastic crowd myself.”

Reade herself was impressed with the newly-built track but calls for changes to be made: “I think the track is very good but obviously I’m going to be biased because I won on it.

“But a few tweaks here and there could be made, but as in every other track it’s the same so it’s really got a good potential. 

“I hope when I do come back here in twelve months time for the Olympics I will win gold for sure.  

“But a few tweaks here and there could be made, but as in every other track it’s the same so it’s really got a good potential.

“I hope when I do come back here in twelve months time for the Olympics I will win gold for sure.”

Pictures copyright of Covsupport News Service. Credit CNS/ZC