A NEW motocross facility has opened in the West Wight, to the delight of legions of riders and followers of the sport across the Island.

The Moto Cross Federation affiliated practice tracks, on farmland off the Military Road, near Brighstone, is home to recently-formed motocross club, MotoxIOW.

Isle of Wight County Press: A rider using one of the sharp bends at the new motocross track off the Island's Military Road.A rider using one of the sharp bends at the new motocross track off the Island's Military Road.

The facility — just what the Isle of Wight’s growing motocross community has been crying out for several years — has two tracks.

It has a smaller one for beginners and small children, and the larger main track, designed for intermediate to advanced riders.

Isle of Wight County Press: Beppe Collins, aged ten — one of the youngest riders to use the new MotoxIOW tracks on Saturday.Beppe Collins, aged ten — one of the youngest riders to use the new MotoxIOW tracks on Saturday.

The intermediate track features fast corners and challenging sections — something the Isle of Wight has not seen since motocross was big in Arreton and at Chale.

Its opening event on Saturday, just by word of mouth alone, attracted 34 riders of all ages and abilities, which ranged from a six-year-old girl to ex-world champion and motorcross legend, Gordon Adsett, 82.

Isle of Wight County Press: Former motorcross world champion, Gordon Adsett, 82, relaxing between rides.Former motorcross world champion, Gordon Adsett, 82, relaxing between rides.

MotoxIOW will be hosting practice track days on alternate Saturdays for up to 28 weeks of the year.

The brainchild behind the new track facility and club, Ben Collins, said: “We have made the track of the half clay, half sand type popular in California.

“I got fed up seeing people riding on the downs and on private land, so I thought I’d build a track. It was needed on the Island.

“It’s an exciting track — not at the top end, so as to appeal to riders of all ages and abilities.

Isle of Wight County Press: Action from Saturday's launch event for the new MotoxIOW motocross group.Action from Saturday's launch event for the new MotoxIOW motocross group.

“It’s what the Island’s motocross community wants. It’s like a family.

“Motocross has been a sport really missed on the Isle of Wight. There are a hell of a lot of followers out there.

“The launch day was well received by all who attended. The feedback has been incredibly positive, with many commenting on the friendly atmosphere and good organisation of the event.

“Although it was set up purely for practicing on, there is always the possibility competitions may be held there in the future, if there is the demand.

Isle of Wight County Press: Another young rider using the new track near Brighstone.Another young rider using the new track near Brighstone.

“MotoxIOW offers a welcoming and safe environment for riders of all ages and abilities to enjoy the exhilaration of motocross.

“It offers youngsters the chance to get active outdoors in a safe, designated area, reducing the likelihood of illegally riding bikes.

“I really hope the Island gets behind it.”

The next track day will be held on July 18.

Each track day runs from 10am until 4.30pm, but riders must book their place via the MotoxIOW website: www.motoxiow.co.uk 

MotoxIOW invites members of the Brighstone and Mottistone community to meet at the track at 4pm this coming Saturday to discuss any issues of concern they may have about the facility.