Champion inspires BMX riders' dream

1:13pm Thursday 6th March 2008

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EXTREME sports athlete Mike Mullen has inspired students at a Calne school to build a BMX track.

Springfields student Dan Carey, 15, was excluded from secondary school and was in danger of being put on a ASBO before he met the BMX World champion, Mike Mullen.

But the biker became his mentor and inspired him to mastermind the track project.

Mr Mullen is now training Dan to be a BMX coach.

He has also persuaded Aggregate Industries of Abberd Way, Calne, to donate £4,000 to the project.

Dan said that meeting the champion, who won the World Champion Masterclass Halfpipe in 1998, changed his life.

He said: "I was at Corsham School and my behaviour wasn't very good. They just couldn't cope and excluded me. When I came to Springfields they got me Mike as a mentor. I get on with him so well. He can understand me and we have one to one conversations about everything.

"Becoming a coach makes me feel quite proud. When I was at school other kids were always looking down on me and now they are looking up to me as their coach.

"I wanted to build the track to give something back to the school and help other kids with learning difficulties. After I finish year eleven I am going to Bath College to study stonemasonry. Before I met Mike I didn't even think I would have a future."

Mr Mullen's mentoring is part of Respect Athlete Mentoring Programme, which is part of a Government initiative to combat anti-social behaviour.

Although the scheme is in its infancy in Wiltshire, it was decided to back Mr Mullen's coaching.

The champion said: "The prospect of being a mentor is an extension of what I already do at skate parks, talking to young people and helping them to realise their potential."

Springfields assistant headteacher James Lynch said: "The mentoring programme has given Dan something to get his teeth into. Since he has been taking part he has been able to resolve his behavioural issues.

"Building the ramp has meant all students working together to create something for the school.

"This wouldn't have happened without Dan."