Cycling at Preston Park Velodrome
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Cycling at Preston Park Velodrome
Preston Park Velodrome is the oldest cycle track in the country. Situated in the north east corner of the park, it offers cyclists a unique track racing experience.
It is the ideal venue for cycle clubs and youth groups to practice and compete as we can offer hire on an hourly or seasonal basis.
The league season runs from April to August, providing a great evenings entertainment as either a spectator or participant, as new riders are always given a warm welcome.
Then...
The Velodrome was dug out, by hand, by the British Army in 1877. The track was ready to start racing the following year and was used for annual competitions right up until the start of the First World War.
When the track re-opened at the end of the First World War, the track surface was made of cinders, meaning riders who had crashed had to be taken to the club house to have the cinders removed with hot water and a scrubbing brush.
The Track's tarmac surface was laid in 1936, with the first and last corners also being raised for safety reasons.
During the 1950's, Bank Holiday races would attract up to 10,000 spectators who would watch cycling legends such as Reg Harris take on the Velodrome.
Spectators were treated to races that were as fast as they were dangerous. There were first-aiders on every corner and judges would pull fallen cyclists off the track to ensure the races were not delayed.
Now...
Although the popularity of the track declined in the 1970's and 1980's, a new league was formed in 2000 which has gone from strength to strength.
With exciting races taking place every Wednesday evening from April to August, riders of all ages and abilities are invited to take part.
The track is free to ride on every day (unless a meeting has been booked) and spectators are always free.
For further League information go to the Sussex Cycle Racing League site.
For more information on Velodromes around the country, go to the Velodrome site.
Price list
Use of the track is free through-out the day, but if you would like to hire the Velodrome for an event or for a season, the prices are as follows:| Hire Type | Time | Price 2012-13 (inc VAT) |
Price 2011-12 (inc VAT) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cycling Track for events | |||
| Cycle Track | Per Hour | £2.19 | £2.15 |
| Cycle Track | Per Day | £17.20 | £16.80 |
| Club Season (once a week) | 2.5hrs for 3 months | £79.56 (Exc VAT) |
£78.00 (Exc VAT) |
Velodrome Location
Local Cycling links
- Cycling around Brighton and Hove.
- Active for Life directory of local clubs
- Brighton & Hove Parks
More information and how to contact us
More information
Contact us
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