Set to elevate and expand their influence further in the Action Sports sphere, Red Bull launched their BMX DIY Project in Turfontein, Johannesburg. The Turfontein BMX Park, situated in The Hill area, is the latest canvas for Red Bull’s vision. This ground-breaking initiative, a collaboration between Red Bull and the local community, aims to breathe new life into the BMX park.
Nkosinathi Gift Nkosi (Nathi Steeze), a prominent BMX rider with deep roots in the Turfontein area sheds light on the project’s significance and the impact it promises to have on the local BMX community.
Nkosi explains that, as a youth growing up in The Hill, he anticipates a surge of excitement among the local youth. “As a BMX rider growing up in The Hill, which is where this park will be getting built, I am confident that a lot of youth in the area will be excited to have a Skatepark that is functional again.”
Having a functional skatepark nearby will keep youth engaged in local entertainment, reducing the need to seek leisure elsewhere. Additionally, the revamped park opens avenues for hosting BMX events, further strengthening its positive impact on the community.
After being asked about the specific features or elements that he is most excited about in the revamped BMX park, Nkosi, a “street” enthusiast, replied – “I am more excited about the street obstacle. The reason for that is, the park was fully ramp oriented and not even one section of street. Nowadays there are a lot of youth getting into the street part of riding which means that more of them will come to the park if given an obstacle they enjoy. It will also give them a chance to better their riding skills because this park has in the past brought out one of the best riders in the new scenery which means the park is a great platform to help better your skills without too much fear.”
“I feel personally connected to this initiative because if it was not for me reaching out, I personally feel like the park would have gone to the pits,” says Nkosi. He goes on to explain that the reason he was able to achieve a dream and become a professional BMX rider was because of the Turfontein Park. “This park means a lot to me because it has given me something to look forward to after school. It has made me well recognised in the area as the best BMX rider.” In addition, the park has allowed him to create friendships with others with similar interests and aspirations: “I have made friends as a result and have won competitions, putting a huge smile on their faces and mine because I was there when they started because of watching me ride every day. Nothing made me happier.”
For Nkosi, being involved in this project means preserving a vital part of his journey and contributes to the growth of the BMX community in the area. Red Bull’s BMX DIY Project marks a significant shift in its support for Action Sports, underscoring its commitment to fostering local talent and community engagement. The revamped Turfontein BMX park is set to become a hub for riders and enthusiasts alike.