Manchester velodrome

Opened in: 1994

Capacity: 3,500

Website: www.nationalcyclingcentre.com

Telephone: 0161 223 2244

Email: Contact form on website

Address: The National Cycling Centre, Stuart Street, Manchester, M11 4DQ

Other facilities: Olympic standard indoor BMX track. Clayton Vale Mountain bike trails.

When the Manchester velodrome opened in 1994, as part of Manchester's 2000 Olympic bid, it was branded a white elephant, a soon-to-be underused facility that would waste council money. Twenty years later it is the beating heart of British Cycling's ascension to the top of world cycling and the self-styled 'busiest track in the world'. Multiple world and Olympic champions, a Tour de France winner and world renowned coaching and talent spotting setup can all be traced back to this venue.

It may not look like much, and it may be situated in an unappealing part of Manchester, but the recent building work, that includes an Olympic standard indoor BMX track, bigger cafe and light, spacious entrance has improved it no end. Events are regularly run here from the well established Revolution series to World Cups and World Championships.

In fact a visit here for an international level event is a must for cycling fans as the knowledgeable home crowd always makes for an electric atmosphere - especially when the Brits are doing well.

International events are a regular occurance at the Manchester velodrome, and well worth attending

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