CALLING all mountain biking enthusiasts!
There is an exciting news for you as Penang now offers a dedicated space for off-road biking once again, as the mountain bike trail at Taman Bandaraya (formerly known as Youth Park) has officially reopened to the public!
Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran said the city council had previously organised the Penang International Mountain Bike Challenge in 2004 and 2005, with Taman Bandaraya serving as one of the key venues for mountain biking fans at the time.
“Although the competition was eventually discontinued, we have now decided to revive the off-road mountain bike trail after 20 years.
“The goal is to encourage greater participation in mountain biking and to promote healthy, outdoor recreation,” he said.
Rajendran added that use of the trail is free of charge, but the public is advised to follow all rules and stick to the designated bike path for safety reasons.
“The off-road trail spans 2km, featuring mildly challenging terrain suitable for both casual and experienced riders. The trail is open daily from 7am to 10pm,” he announced at the press conference during the reopening ceremony earlier today.
Also present were Penang Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye, MBPP secretary Cheong Chee Hong and MBPP councillor Shafiz Rahim Raja.
According to Rajendran, the trail was once recognised as an international-standard mountain biking venue.
“We aim to regain that recognition to benefit mountain biking enthusiasts. To achieve this, the city council will be inviting professional mountain biking experts to assess the trail in terms of safety, suitability, and challenge level.
“If all goes well and the trail meets international standards once more, MBPP plans to organise an international mountain biking event next year,” he revealed.
He also reminded riders to prioritise safety and to always wear protective gear, such as helmets, due to the trail’s hilly and adventurous terrain.
Meanwhile, Jason H’ng commended the reopening, saying it reflects the state government’s commitment to providing proper facilities for recreational and sporting activities, especially for the growing community of mountain biking enthusiasts.
Story and pix by Riadz Akmal