Geraint Thomas National Velodrome facts for kids
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Wales National Velodrome
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Entrance
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| Location | Velodrome Way, Newport NP19 4RB |
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| Capacity | 500 |
| Opened | 2003 |
The Geraint Thomas National Velodrome, also known as the Wales National Velodrome, is an exciting indoor sports arena. It is located in Newport, South Wales, within the Newport International Sports Village. This special building is mainly used for track cycling.
The Velodrome opened in 2003. It has a 250-metre cycling track made from Siberian pine wood. This track is covered, so cyclists can train and race in any weather. The Velodrome also has other useful facilities. These include a dance studio, a weights room, and a fitness area. It even has a special room for drug testing.
The Velodrome can seat 500 people. This means many fans can watch the thrilling cycling races. It is also the main office for Welsh Cycling. A youth cycling club, Newport Velo, is based here too. This club helps young cyclists learn and improve their skills.
Outside the main building, there is a special track for cycle speedway. This is where the Newport Cycle Speedway Club practices and competes.
A Training Hub for Champions
The Geraint Thomas National Velodrome has been very important for British cyclists. The British track cycling team used it to prepare for the Olympic Games. They held their training camps here before the 2008, 2012, and 2016 Olympics. This helped them get ready for the big races.
Renamed for a Hero
In August 2018, the Velodrome was given a new name. It was renamed after Geraint Thomas. He is a famous Welsh cyclist. Geraint Thomas was the first Welsh person to win the Tour de France. He was also the third British cyclist ever to win this huge race. Renaming the Velodrome after him celebrates his amazing achievements.
Hosting Big Events
The Velodrome is a top venue for cycling events. It will host the 2022 British National Track Championships. This is a major event where the best track cyclists in Britain compete.
See also
In Spanish: Velódromo Nacional de Gales para niños
- List of cycling tracks and velodromes
