In June 2014, the conversion work began in the former tennis hall in Pfäffikon. Five months, a lot of sweat and passion later, the indoor bike park opened in November 2014. The hall boasts a fully tarred pump track, a jump line with foam pit, a terrace for spectators, a sauna area, bistro, lounges for the riders, office space and everything else that goes with it. "We have been working day and night over the last few weeks. We are extremely proud that everything has gone so well and that we can now open. It is an immense achievement by everyone who has helped and we would like to thank every single person for their commitment," said Thomas Wildling from the management team at the opening in November 2014.

Nothing rolls anymore

Today, no wheels roll over the pump track. The indoor bike park has been closed since the summer break in 2017 - because the management position is still vacant. Thomas Wildling is the spiritual father, initiator and major shareholder of the Indoor Bike Park and had been managing the hall since summer 2015. In addition to his strong commitment to the sport of biking, Wildling also successfully runs a carpentry business in Wermatswil. Wildling says of his dual role: "The last three seasons have been very successful, but also very hectic. I'm already approaching 50, am a happy father and also run a wonderful carpentry business. I had to make a decision before 'the umbrella closes' or the family and the joinery 'take a hit'."

One way out: renting out to clubs

In order to relieve him, Wildling has been looking for a managing director for the indoor bike park since this summer - but the search has so far been unsuccessful. However, a solution is on the horizon. The Züri Trails association is renting the hall for ten Monday evenings for the time being, and the indoor bike park will then be open to association members. BMX clubs, for example, will also be able to rent the hall in the evening or on Saturdays. The hall is currently rented out on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday evenings, as well as on some Saturdays. "This means that the popular winter training can continue to take place. And until a new manager is found, we will rent out the hall accordingly," says Wildling.

As things stand, Wildling continues: "The Indoor Bike Park is a really nice facility for promoting biking. We've had great events, lots of happy kids at the camps and courses, but it takes a lot of energy to organize this. It would be great if we could find a suitable new manager."

www.indoorbikepark.ch