A motocross showcase held on Coney Island Park on Sunday was heralded as an “adrenalin-pumping” and “iconic” event by government ministers who attended.

Lieutenant-Colonel David Burch, the Minister of Public Works, and Owen Darrell, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, were spectators at the contest. Both were impressed by the racing.

Sunday’s tournament was the first time that motocross racing had been held on Coney Island in more than 20 years.

It sparked concerns after Colonel Burch granted organisers permission to construct a track in the park.

Environmental groups claimed that the event, which attracted thousands of spectators, would harm wildlife and vegetation, and that it could be held at an existing track at Southside.

In a statement, Colonel Burch said: “I attended Sunday’s event and loved what I saw.

“Thousands of Bermudians and visitors enjoyed an adrenalin-pumping day of motocross. It was amazing to see the event come together so well.”

Addressing the concerns of environmental groups, he said: “I made the decision to support this event because it balanced progress with environmental responsibility and provided a unique opportunity to showcase our island's potential.

“Coney Island Park has been fully restored to its original state, as promised. The organisers removed all barriers, excess mulch, and debris, even taking the opportunity to clean up two decades’ of pollution in the lagoon.

“The park is now in better shape than it was before the event. This initiative shows what is possible when we balance progress with responsible stewardship.”

Colonel Burch added: “Motocross is part of Bermuda’s history and culture, and this event brought generations together to celebrate that heritage. It was an excellent example of how bold ideas and community spirit can achieve great things.

“This government will continue to support innovative projects that empower our youth and bring international attention to our island.”

Mr Darrell was equally enthusiastic about the spectacle.

He said: “This was a big moment, an iconic event, with over 5,000 attendees enjoying a unique showcase at Coney Island.

“It was especially exciting to see veteran athletes aged 60 and over reliving their glory days on motorcycles alongside young riders.

“The competition also attracted international participants and spectators, many of whom were visiting Bermuda for the first time.”

David Burt, the Premier, was also at the event, and described it as “a remarkable showcase of Bermudian talent and community spirit”.

He added: “I enjoyed attending with my family and seeing thousands of residents and visitors come together to celebrate an exciting day of racing.

“This event is a perfect example of what can happen when bold ideas are supported, which the Government was proud to do.

“This government will continue to support young Bermudians who bring forward creative ideas, especially those that bring our community together.”

Initially, the Government said that permission was granted for just one day of motocross racing.

Colonel Burch said later that further events could be held at the park depending on the success of Sunday’s event.

Yesterday, the event’s organiser, Jyire Mitchell, of Pink Sand Scrambling, thanked the community for its support.

He said: “It was truly a family-oriented experience, with every neighbourhood in Bermuda able to come to enjoy the day without incident.

“The overseas riders expressed their excitement countless times about the unique experience of racing on an island.

“They all mentioned that the atmosphere and overall positive vibes are unlike anything they have ever experienced.

“I have had over 20 inquiries asking for information on how to participate, and it’s only three days after the event.”