Cyclists in Edmonton are finally getting a chance to ride on the city\u2019s new indoor velodrome, nearly 20 years after plans were first proposed. The Coronation Park Sports and Recreation Centre has been under construction for three years and will initially welcome cycling clubs to train on its 250-metre track.<\/p>\n
An important facility for locals<\/p>\n
Alex Ongaro, head coach of the Argyll Velodrome Association and a former Canadian National Team rider, said the facility is unlike any other. \u201cI believe this is the best facility in the U.S. or Canada,\u201d he told CTV News Edmonton<\/a>. Ongaro, who won silver at the 1986 Commonwealth Games, added that national team riders are already expressing interest in coming to train.<\/p>\n Matthew Everett, general supervisor with facility infrastructure delivery with the City of Edmonton, gives the media a tour of the construction progress at the Coronation Park Sports and Recreation Centre. #yeg<\/a> pic.twitter.com\/NHgNdbeZ9K<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 David Bloom (@davidbloomphoto) September 27, 2024<\/a><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u201cUp to now, with the outdoor track, there\u2019s been a disconnect where we can only bring them so far with the facilities that we had \u2026 now with this velodrome, I think we can get right there \u2026 if they want to get to that level,\u201d Ongaro said to CTV<\/a>.<\/p>\n Developing future champions<\/p>\n Olympian Tara Whitten called riding the track \u201cincredible\u201d and highlighted its importance for developing cycling in Canada. \u201cNow we have three. You can just see the effect that it has on the cycling development in Canada,\u201d she said, noting the facility will help nurture both recreational and elite riders.<\/p>\n The velodrome seats about 200 spectators and is designed for provincial and national events rather than international competition. Former Olympian Tanya Dubnicoff, general manager of the Alberta Velodrome Association, said the $153-million project is a milestone for the local cycling community.<\/p>\n Young cyclist Adam Ritchie said the indoor track will help level the playing field. \u201cThis is going to close the difference between me and the other riders that race. It\u2019s going to make a huge difference,\u201d he told CTV<\/a>.<\/p>\n The Coronation Park Sports and Recreation Centre is expected to open fully in January, with additional amenities including a running track, fitness centre, bouldering wall, gymnasiums, multi-purpose rooms, and indoor play space.<\/p>\n