3,500 tonnes of sand for BMX track at Alexandra Palace

The grounds of Alexandra Palace have been transformed into a challenging BMX track after 3,500 tonnes of sand were brought in.

About 10,000 people are expected to descend on the park this weekend to watch Red Bull’s Empire of Dirt BMX competition, which attracts 34 of the world’s best riders.

Rider Kye Forte said: “We plan to make the course the most challenging ever seen with oversized features, motocross-style jumps and snowboard-type hits. What better location to take BMX riding to the next level than at Alexandra Palace with its incredible views?”

The 435 metre-long course will include a series of ramps constructed from a mixture of sand and scaffolding.

The biggest jump will require riders to clear the height of two double-decker buses.