Experience thrill of Te Miro bike tack

Bike lake jumping and a BMX demonstration will be some of the exciting activities at the Te Miro Mountain Bike race and open day.

The bike tracks, in Te Miro reserve on Waterworks Road in the Matamata-Piako, are open to people all year.

But the club wanted to hold an open day to encourage new riders and families to the site, on April 7.

Along with experienced BMX stunt riders showing their skills, there is also a zoom slide and bike lake jumping.

Lake jumping is open to the public, providing participants wear a helmet, mouth guard and life jacket.

Guided tours will be held in the afternoon.

Te Miro reserve boasts 20km worth of tracks, for beginners, through to experienced riders.

It includes the most well used track Big Willy, dedicated to the late Willy Muller.

Muller, 71, was one of three cyclists who died in Kiwitahi after a driver lost control and crashed into the group in 2010.

The well marked tracks go through peaceful native bush and around a lake.

It’s used by walkers, cyclists and also for family picnics.

There is a barbecue and covered picnic tables on site.

Even four legged friends are welcome, as long as they are picked up after and kept on-leash.

Some people have been known to fish in the lake.

The club has come a long way over the years.

Mountain bike club committee member Linley McMillan said the tracks had always been used over the years but without a governing body.

However after the club was formed in 2013, volunteers, with the help of sponsors and Matamata-Piako District Council transformed the site into something amazing.

‘‘It’s come a way in leaps and bounds,’’ she said.

‘‘The tracks are in better condition and well maintained, it’s awesome.’’

Professional track builders were invited to help build the tracks.

It’s now complete with picnic and bathroom facilities.

She said its location is just ideal.

‘‘It’s so close to Morrinsville, Cambridge and Matamata.

‘‘We would love people to come and enjoy it and new people to come and have a go.’’

Te Miro Mountain Bike Open Day, April 7.