Derby chosen for national BMX championships

A park owned by Derby City Council has been chosen to host the British BMX Championships this summer.

British Cycling has confirmed the country’s best BMX riders will compete for the prestigious title of British champion at Alvaston Park in August.

It will be the fourth time that Derby BMX Club has hosted the showpiece of the domestic BMX calendar.

The event was also held at Alvaston Park in 2019, 2017 and 2016.

Derby’s selection further cements its reputation as a top city for cycling.

The Great Britain Cycling Team track squads spent most of last year at Derby Arena (BH) while its usual home, the National Cycling Centre in Manchester, underwent renovation work.

Councillor Jerry Pearce, the city council’s cabinet member for Streetpride, leisure and public services, said: “We are delighted to welcome the British BMX Championships back to Alvaston Park.

“Derby has become known as a city where anyone can get involved with cycling, whether they’re a beginner or an elite cyclist.

“Our cycling facilities are of the highest quality – so much so that Derby Arena was able to host the Great Britain Cycling Team as they prepared for their success at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

“The fact Derby has been chosen to host the British BMX Championships for a fourth time continues to demonstrate how highly the city is regarded in the cycling world.”

British Cycling said Derby’s strong application and excellent track record of hosting events had secured the city’s place as the chosen location for the 2023 championships.

Acting cycling delivery director Jonathan Day said: “The British BMX Championships is renowned for its family atmosphere and fierce racing, for riders of all ages, and we look forward to returning to Derby once again in August.”