Work on $13m Sam Willoughby BMX Facility starts

Riders from around the world will flock to new the multimillion-dollar facility at O’Halloran Hill says its dual Olympian namesake.

After years of delays, work is about to begin on the $13 million Sam Willoughby International BMX Track at O’Halloran Hill.

Named in honour of BMX star Willoughby, who represented Australia at the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games, the track will be equipped to host large scale competitions such as state championships and BMX Supercross World Cups.

“This is going to be one of the greatest BMX facilities in the world,” Willoughby said in a video message, recorded from his home in California, ahead of the groundbreaking ceremony yesterday.

BMX champ Sam Willoughby with his wife Alyse.

“I’ve been particularly involved in the design process of the track itself and I’m very excited about what we’ve come up with – it’s got something for everyone.

“To think there’s going to be a world-class BMX facility that has the ability to host international events in our home city is something that I never could have dreamt of as a kid.

“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.”

The facility will include an international standard BMX track, a clubroom along with 5m and 8m start hills. It will also become home to its world champion namesake’s former clubs – The Cove and Happy Valley BMX clubs.

Artist impressions of the starting tower at the Sam Willoughby BMX centre to be built at O’Halloran Hill/ Picture: Greenway Architects

Artist impressions of the Sam Willoughby BMX Centre to be built at O'Halloran Hill. Credit: Greenway Architects

The precinct also includes a soccer facility which will feature three floodlit turf pitches and clubrooms with a kitchen and bar.

Marion Mayor Kris Hanna said the world-class facilities would benefit some 900 soccer players and BMX riders.

“BMX will be on the international stage in the city of Marion,” Mr Hanna said. “We are addressing a shortfall of quality facilities in the area and catering for increased demand.”

The project was hit by substantial delays and cost increase after it was discovered 3m deep clay would need to be removed to from the site. An additional $2.3 million in funding from the State Government and Marion Council saved the project from being shelved.

“This project is another example of local and state governments working together to deliver facilities our communities have told us they need,” Onkaparinga Mayor Erin Thompson said.

“Having this facility on our doorstep … will help to identify and nurture future sporting stars.”