RACING AND EVENTS
Track bike racing is the life blood of Herne Hill Velodrome and this makes it one of the most exciting venues in the country. Under the management of VC Londres, we host more open race meetings than any other track in the country. We have excellent relationships with local cycling clubs and riders. We know what they want so our schedule is constantly evolving and expanding to reflect their needs. All our events are family friendly and almost all are free to spectate.
Our Super Series of events attracts top national and international riders and includes the legendary Good Friday meeting. Former riders are Victoria Pendleton, Chris Hoy, Alex Dowsett and, of course, Bradley Wiggins. Herne Hill attracts elite riders but also offers plenty of racing opportunities for novices, youngsters, juniors, seniors and veterans. Some of the younger racers will be stars of the future! In 2012, race team Mule Bar Girl will be hosted a ground-breaking Women’s only track cycling event, VeloJam, where women raced in ability groups. This was a first in the UK and is happened at Herne Hill! During the winter, Herne Hill Velodrome and the surrounding land adapts into an off-road Cyclo-X venue and is a major fixture for the London Cyclo-X League.
As well as big, national-level events, we hold a Wednesday evening Track League, sponsored by Cycling Weekly, the Open Season series and seasonal Omniums, meaning there is at least 1, and often 2 races each week during the racing season. As well as having the opportunity to race on a fast new track surface (we need new track records set this year!) at a historic venue, there are cash prizes for top riders in most races.
Starting Racing
Before you start racing you should build up your experience, fitness and skill at our
training sessions, and
progress your way through the range of sessions.
We run a small number of "Go-Race" events, aimed at novice racers which don't require this formality, as well as our
race training session on Monday evenings - the best way to get into, and learn race skills.
Once you have progressed through the sessions, to participate in most races, including
Wednesday Track League, you will need
Silver/Gold membership from British Cycling, with a racing license. Racing Licenses can also be purchased for one-off use on the day of racing.
Track League is the best place to have your first proper race due to its relatively informal and relaxed atmosphere. After this there is a range of weekend racing, like the
Omnium series at the beginning and end of the season, and the
Open Season series on the first Saturday of every month and the more high-level
Super Series adding to a full
calendar of events.