South Australia’s only international-standard BMX track and a soccer facility worth more than $13 million will be better than ever with the announcement that City of Marion has plans for a pump track to be added to the site.
In a huge boost for the region, the Sam Willoughby International BMX Track and Southern Football Facility at the Glenthorne National Park, Ityamaiitpinna Yarta, will be a new home for an estimated 900 soccer players and BMX riders when completed later this year.
City of Marion has invested $6.25 million and the South Australian Government $6.05 million, with City of Onkaparinga contributing $750,000, and federal grant funding of $300,000.
The $7 million soccer facility includes three floodlit turf pitches, clubrooms with a kitchen, bar, and car parking.
The BMX track, named after local champion Sam Willoughby, will cost $6.05 million and include a floodlit track, clubrooms and car parking.
City of Marion Mayor, Kris Hanna, said, “BMX will be on the international stage in the City of Marion. Local soccer players and BMX riders of all ages will train and compete in new venues.
“With the addition of a pump track, we will have a BMX facility that can be used by riders of all standards.
“I thank the State Government for its significant contribution to both projects. I also thank Onkaparinga Council for its funding towards the BMX track and the Federal Government for its contributions to both projects.”
Marion Council will spend an extra $136,000 to build the pump track with work starting once the main Sam Willoughby track is completed later this year.
Local BMX champion Sam Willoughby, said, “This is going to be one of the greatest BMX facilities in the world.
“It’s going to raise the level of our local BMX riders. Everyone from around the world is going to want to come and use this facility.”
