RAWALPINDI, July 5: Young bikers wheeling and racing like crazy are a growing menace on the roads of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. But there is hope now.

Shehzad Gugo, a passionate and dangerous biker for 15 years, tested his prowess, and the nerves of a crowd, here on Friday – and won a trophy for that.

Gugo, 35, was rewarded for his expertise but could display it safely only because farsighted people have laid a Motocross Track at the Ayub National Park.

“I am very happy with this track. I have no fear for myself but here I can pursue my passion without scaring others,” the excited father of four commented to Dawn after winning the free class category of the 2nd NLC Motocross Challenge race at the track.

“It is no dangerous stint, just a technique,” he said. “Absence of a facility for the biking enthusiasts made it a dangerous game.”

One may agree or disagree with his views but he is determined to persist in his passion by participating in future competitions.

“I have a 250cc bike which I have modified myself to achieve high speeds,” said Gugo proudly.

Zaigham and Alamgir Khan who came second and third in his category of race must have inferior machines, or inferior techniques as Gugo would put.

Sponsors of the event said the primary objective of the track is to satisfy the adventurous streak of youth and hone their talent in a secure and safe environment. Land for the 1.4km long track, and other requisite infrastructure, was provided by the Army Heritage Foundation.

National Logistic Cell’s media manager Syed M. Bukhari told Dawn that the track was opened for bikers who had attained the age limit of 18 years.

“Only those bikers are allowed to participate in the races who possess a valid motorbike driving licence,” he added.

Since the spirit behind the project is to regulate the thrilling sport without endangering lives of youth, participating motorcyclists are provided safety gears, including helmet, goggles, neck brace, chest protector, under-gear shoes, knee caps, gloves, moto socks, boots and elbow protection before embarking on the track.

Bikers participating in Friday’s events were divided into four classes according to the cubic centimetre (cc) capacity of their motorbikes.

The first class was for 70cc road bikes, the second class for 100cc to 125cc, the third class designated to trail was for 100cc to 125cc bikes and the fourth race was free class category.

As many as 24 bikers qualified for the final contest. The teams were divided in a group of six for four lapses on 1.4km track. The bikers skillfully negotiated the sharp turns and crossed obstacles exhibiting full control and speed.

In the first class category Gulyar Guli won first position, Ali Munna came second and Kamran Commando third. The second class category was won by Shehzad Doctor and Ali Munna and Adnan Masih came second and third respectively. In the third class category Adnan Bobi got first position and Zeeshan and Atif second and third respectively.