New Pump Track Opens in Kibbutz Bari Symbolizing Resilience

Three years after the October 7th Hamas attack, a new bicycle park, including an international-standard pump track, has opened in Kibbutz Bari. The park was established with a donation from Sylvan Adams and aims to serve the children of Bari and surrounding Western Negev communities. The opening ceremony was attended by kibbutz members, youth, and families of the 14 cyclists and triathletes murdered in the Hamas attack.

Ayeh Midan, a kibbutz member who survived a Hamas ambush on October 7th, described the park as "a place of revival and future," emphasizing its role in bringing joy back to the wounded community and the Western Negev. Avida Becher, whose wife and son were killed and who was severely injured on October 7th, spoke about his personal recovery and the long road ahead for the kibbutz, expressing hope for the future symbolized by the children riding at the park.

Adams stated that the facility demonstrates that "we cannot be broken" and that they are "here to stay." He announced plans for the park to host the Israeli Pump Track Championship and a qualifier for the World Championship. The park was built in collaboration with Israel Cycling Academy and Kibbutz Bari.

Kibbutz Bari suffered immense losses on October 7th, with 101 members killed and 30 kidnapped, many of whom were cyclists. Many residents are still displaced, awaiting the reconstruction of over 130 damaged or destroyed homes. The park's opening is seen as a significant step in the community's recovery and rebuilding process.

Adams also revealed plans to explore the re-establishment of the legendary "Bari Pit," a popular off-road cycling venue that closed in the early 2000s, adjacent to the new pump track. Rami Gold, a kibbutz member and expert in building bike trails who was involved in the original "Bari Pit," has been tasked with developing a plan for its reconstruction.