I read in the Charlotte Observer on 8/5/04 that there are plans for building a velodrome in the city of Charlotte. If you don't know what Velodrome is, is a special track used for bike racing, as well as in line skating.
A great example of a community 'drome can be found here: http://velodrome.org/
There are currently only 19 Veldromes around the Country.
Does anyone have any more information about this gorup/plan?
As a biker, I am very excited about the thought of a veldrome being built here in Charlotte.
Charlotte Velodrome
Started by
reverbandwhiskey
, Aug 06 2004 03:50 PM
3 replies to this topic
#3
reverbandwhiskey
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Hamlet
Posted 26 September 2004 - 06:57 PM
"As reported in Whowon.com
Lowe’s Motor Speedway
Wednesday, August 4, 2004
Local group wants to build Velodrome in Charlotte area
by Dr. Michael Cowan
CONCORD, N.C. -- A group of local businessmen and cycling enthusiasts are working to build a $1.5-million, multi-use velodrome in the Metrolina area.
Organizers of the Carolina Velodrome Association unveiled the concept today at Lowe's Motor Speedway during a press conference to kick off the Bank of America Criterium, the largest cycling event in the Carolinas.
The concept includes a world-class facility that features a 250-meter track, banked 44 degrees. A permanent 1,000-seat grandstand, with additional areas for another 3,000 temporary seats, is part of the initial phase of the project. The venue could host international cycling races plus prestigious U.S.-sanctioned events such as the Olympic Trials, Pan Am Games and National Championships.
"We are offering the Metrolina area a very unique and exciting opportunity," said Dr. Michael Cowan, one of the founders of the Carolina Velodrome Association. "With the nearest comparable track located in southern Florida, the proposed velodrome will be the premier facility in the Southeast. This facility will attract riders from around the globe. Spectators will be treated to a fast-paced sport similar to NASCAR racing. Going fast and turning left is a concept we understand."
In addition to major cycling events, the facility could be used year-round for public riding, racing, training and rider development.
H.A. "Humpy" Wheeler, president of Lowe's Motor Speedway and a very active cycling enthusiast, says the new cycling complex will be a major asset for the region.
"This would really help the Charlotte area continue on its path of attracting events which help the local economy," said Wheeler. "Last weekend's Bassmaster Classic and the Bank of America Invitational Criterium this weekend energize the area economy during the slowest tourist week of the year.
"Another positive is the potential outreach to kids from lower income families," said Wheeler. "These kids can participate in a program that will offer clinics and low-cost rental track bicycles.
Non-cycling use includes in-line skating, BMX, skateboarding, radio-controlled car races, concerts and other outdoor entertainment events.
Plans also include provisions for bicycle retail and service on site.
The group, which is organized as a 501c3 corporation, is currently in negotiations for an undisclosed site in the region. The project, which would take 12-18 months to build, would involve both public and private investment."
Words cannot express how excited I am about this!
Lowe’s Motor Speedway
Wednesday, August 4, 2004
Local group wants to build Velodrome in Charlotte area
by Dr. Michael Cowan
CONCORD, N.C. -- A group of local businessmen and cycling enthusiasts are working to build a $1.5-million, multi-use velodrome in the Metrolina area.
Organizers of the Carolina Velodrome Association unveiled the concept today at Lowe's Motor Speedway during a press conference to kick off the Bank of America Criterium, the largest cycling event in the Carolinas.
The concept includes a world-class facility that features a 250-meter track, banked 44 degrees. A permanent 1,000-seat grandstand, with additional areas for another 3,000 temporary seats, is part of the initial phase of the project. The venue could host international cycling races plus prestigious U.S.-sanctioned events such as the Olympic Trials, Pan Am Games and National Championships.
"We are offering the Metrolina area a very unique and exciting opportunity," said Dr. Michael Cowan, one of the founders of the Carolina Velodrome Association. "With the nearest comparable track located in southern Florida, the proposed velodrome will be the premier facility in the Southeast. This facility will attract riders from around the globe. Spectators will be treated to a fast-paced sport similar to NASCAR racing. Going fast and turning left is a concept we understand."
In addition to major cycling events, the facility could be used year-round for public riding, racing, training and rider development.
H.A. "Humpy" Wheeler, president of Lowe's Motor Speedway and a very active cycling enthusiast, says the new cycling complex will be a major asset for the region.
"This would really help the Charlotte area continue on its path of attracting events which help the local economy," said Wheeler. "Last weekend's Bassmaster Classic and the Bank of America Invitational Criterium this weekend energize the area economy during the slowest tourist week of the year.
"Another positive is the potential outreach to kids from lower income families," said Wheeler. "These kids can participate in a program that will offer clinics and low-cost rental track bicycles.
Non-cycling use includes in-line skating, BMX, skateboarding, radio-controlled car races, concerts and other outdoor entertainment events.
Plans also include provisions for bicycle retail and service on site.
The group, which is organized as a 501c3 corporation, is currently in negotiations for an undisclosed site in the region. The project, which would take 12-18 months to build, would involve both public and private investment."
Words cannot express how excited I am about this!
