Virginia City adds Summer fun to Pace Park with new pump track

Virginia City will celebrate the completion of the new pump track at Pace Park on Aug. 17 from 1-4 p.m. with a party that includes a BBQ, music by Montana Exit and plenty of laps around the new track. 

“After more than two years of dreaming and planning, we’re so stoked to see that the Pace Park Pump Track is officially finished and ready for everyone to enjoy,” said Erin Leanord, who was involved in the planning and completion of the project. “It’s a huge step in making Pace Park an even better place to gather, play, and enjoy this incredible setting. This spot will help get kids outside, bring the community together, and welcome visitors to share in a unique setting you don't have everywhere.”

The pump track is a groomed dirt circuit designed to allow riders to navigate the terrain without pedaling. The concept originates out of the mountain bike and BMX scene and encourages the rider to use up and down body momentum rather than the pedals to keep up their momentum. Riders use them to build offroad skills and have fun.  

“As a committee, we wanted to bring a Summertime attraction to Pace Park,” said Abby Thomas who helped make the track a reality. “The park is already a popular Winter destination with the ice rink and sledding hill. Now, with the pump track, Pace Park is a place our community and visitors can come together year-round. The pump track is a unique feature that offers fun for all ages and we are excited to spread the word about it.”

The first pump track in the United States was created in Boulder, Colo., in 2004 according to Wikipedia at the Fix Bike Shop. Previous to that Australian mountain bikers were known to create practice tracks using the same concepts. The tracks are used to develop cornering skills, practice maintaining speed and improving balance. The track at Pace Park is designed to provide training challenges for all ages and skill levels. 

“Having things to do that get kids outside and physically active is always positive,” said Eric Barsness who was instrumental in helping get the project completed.  “The pump track and hockey rink along with the baseball field can help encourage families to move here to a community that cares about kids.”

The event on Aug. 17 is free of charge and open to the public. Pace Park is at the corner of Edgar St. and E. Idaho St. in Virginia City.