Tucked away in the suburb of Llanrumney sits one of Cardiff’s best kept sporting secrets, a world-class BMX track that is quietly making a name for itself on the national stage.
Thousands of people drive past it every day on the A48, yet few realise a major international-standard cycling facility is right there at Riverside Park.
Planning permission for the track was granted in August 2021 after an application by Geraint John Planning on behalf of Cardiff BMX Racing Club and the Welsh Cycling Union. Built on land within a flood plain, the project included floodlights and met international BMX standards.
The National BMX Centre Wales officially opened in July 2024, giving the city a brand-new 400m international-standard track. It did briefly hit the headlines later that year when the surrounding playing fields flooded – but aside from that, the facility has flown under the radar, which is a shame given its importance to the sport in Wales and the opportunities it offers to local families.
The centre is home to Cardiff BMX Racing Club, a community hub that welcomes riders of all ages and abilities. While it has been the stage for major events such as the Welsh Championships and the UK Regional Championships, many people in the city are still surprised to hear such a facility exists right on their doorstep.
The track has already hosted standout fixtures including the South West BMX Championships, drawing riders from across Wales and all over the UK. Yet, despite hosting some of the sport’s biggest competitions, its profile within Cardiff itself is still growing.
Cardiff BMX Racing Club is more than just a venue for top-level racing. The club offers coaching sessions for children as young as four, with no upper age limit. It’s a place where beginners can take their first ride and where experienced competitors can train with British Cycling registered coaches to reach international levels.
They even hosted the first coaching session with the new Olympic Champion (Saya Sakakibara) who flew in from Australia straight after her medal win, giving locals the best opportunities to get into the sport.
The club’s vision is simple: to introduce as many people as possible in Cardiff and the surrounding area to the sport of BMX racing. With a strong programme of coaching and a welcoming community, the club continues to thrive, helping young riders develop new skills, confidence and friendships.
Upcoming sessions at Cardiff BMX Track
For those who want to get involved, follow the Cardiff BMX Racing Club Facebook page for upcoming coaching dates and events.
Sessions cover race lines and cornering, detailed gate analysis with same-day video feedback. The club caters for all levels offering a training start gate which can be used for those just starting out, a national standard 5m hill gate, and even an 8m hill gate for those with European or World Championship ambitions. Coaching includes advice on technique, sprint analysis, and access to the pro straight, alongside jump and manual technique training.
With an app, website and active social media channels, the club makes it easy to get involved, whether for an afternoon of training, an open day or full membership. For Cardiff families looking for a new activity – or for those who simply want to watch high-octane racing up close – the National BMX Centre Wales offers a unique sporting experience right here in the capital.
For more information, visit Cardiff BMX Racing Club online or search for the CardiffBMX app.
