'What a huge loss to the sport' - end of an era for Desertmartin Motocross Track
The track was ‘developed from a disused sandpit into one of the best in the UK/Ireland’
A motocross track, known as ‘one of the best in the UK and Ireland’, has closed after five decades.
The shock closure of Desertmartin Motocross Track, affectionately known as ‘The Desert’, was announced on Friday by Cookstown and District Motorcycle Club.
In a statement, the club which manages the track, which has been open for five decades, said it was ‘with regret’ that the club ‘is no longer in operation’.
“From 5pm today the landlord took back control of the land on which the club, over the past 50 years, developed from a disused sandpit into one of the best tracks in the UK/Ireland,” said a club spokesperson.
“To all the club workers over the years, friends, volunteers, officials, track workers, flaggers, first aiders, caterers, security and all the wider community we want to thank you for the countless hours of hard work, encouragement and offers of assistance you have provided. Without everyone pulling together the club would never have achieved the high success it has done in running races and practice days from club days, to National, British and World championship levels. All done to promote Motocross and done for the benefit of the sport.
“To our valued sponsors - your unwavering generosity has been the foundation of our success in developing ‘The Desert' over the years along with the backing of our local council and Sport NI. We could not have progressed as much as we did without your help and for that we will be forever grateful.”
The spokesperson also paid tribute to all the riders who were loyal to the club over the years.
“To all the riders, teams, families and other Motocross Clubs - thank you for supporting us over the years and for standing by us over the past few years in particular. While we are devastated to leave our Motocross home, your passion and loyalty to the club will never be forgotten,” continued the spokesperson.
“We want to also thank the governing bodies in our sport for believing in us, The MRA and ACU and in supporting us in running some brilliant races over the years.
“There are too many people to mention by name who we are indebted to for your support and kindness over the years so please accept our sincere thanks to each and everyone of you.
“We wish everyone success, enjoyment and good health in the future and from all of the Cookstown and District Motorcycle club we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”
The news has been met with sadness by many who enjoyed the track over the years.
One man said: “Thank you all for everything over the years. You have set the standard for mx tracks in this country for years.”
Another man wrote: “I'm so sorry to hear this, this is where I began my mx passion, will be sorely missed at my back door step.”
A woman added: “Some great memories at this track over the years, what a huge loss to the sport. It was one of the best tracks in the world in my opinion…thanks to you and your crew for all your hard work over the years.”
Another tribute read: “This is truly the end of an era. As neighbours and as a family, we’ve been so fortunate to have had so many wonderful memories at The Desert over the years. Marlene and Billy have worked tirelessly and done an incredible job, creating something that meant so much to so many people.
“The club wasn’t just a motocross track it was a community, bringing families, friends and riders together for generations. The dedication of everyone involved has been nothing short of remarkable, and the impact you’ve had on the sport and the local community will never be forgotten.
“Thank you to everyone who gave their time, energy and passion over the last 50 years. The Desert will be massively missed, but the memories made there will last a lifetime. Wishing you all the very best for the future.”