CYCLISTS RIDE BMX TRACK IN SCOTT CITY

SCOTT CITY -- Bike riding has become more than just a means of passing time in Scott City.

For many, smooth bike trails and impromptu races against the kid next door won't cut it. Neither will makeshift ramps made from bricks and plywood.

For those types of enthusiasts, there is the National Bicycle League (NBL). And for those who live near Scott City, there is an NBL sanctioned track.

The Scott City BMX Park, which was built last June, is inconspicuous. It is hidden on city property past the railroad tracks, near the city line.

And it's nothing fancy. Currently, there is no electricity like some of the fancier tracks around the country. There is no announcer's tower. There are no lights. And the track isn't even open except on race days.

But for the some 25 youths who use the track on nearly every Saturday between May and October, the course serves its purpose.

Clark Bollinger, who recently took second place at a race down in Louisiana, said bicycle racing is something he had always wanted to do. Now he can.

"I've just always wanted to do it," Bollinger said. "Then they started building a track."

The "they" referred to by Bollinger is a conglomerate of people. There is no one person in charge of the track and the local BMX scene, but rather a tight-knit group of volunteers -- mostly parents -- who have provided the recreation opportunity.

"The theme of the NBL is that nobody sits on the bench," said Robert Young, who was instrumental in getting the track built. "Everyone chips in."

The track -- an obstacle course of huge bumps, ramps and slanted curves -- hosts races for virtually all ages and skill levels for boys and girls. On any given race day, the track will attract participants from all over the Southeast Missouri region and some riders from Illinois.

Some of the races toward the end of the season will likely draw near 40 riders.

There are several riders in the area who are ranked nationally or regionally, based on points.

The track is paid for by sponsors, dues and racing fees.

Each participant pays $35 at the beginning of the year, which enables him or her to participate in any NBL race in the nation (five national races are required to compete in the grand national race in Louisville, Ky. in September). Racers also pay fees for each race.

For more information about joining the NBL, contact Phyllis King at 243-6726.