March 7/10 12:16 pm - London Velodrome Opens Spring Season with Youth Racing

Posted by Editoress on 03/7/10
 

What a great way to kick off the spring riding season, youth racing at the Forest City Velodrome. With the ongoing support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation and the Ontario Cycling Association, 28 racers competed in a three event Omnium at the FCV on Saturday, March 6th. For many, it was their first ever race event. The ages of the Future Olympians ranged from 8 years to 16 years old.

The kids participated in three challenging events, that tested the speed and strength of each rider. The Flying Lap (favourite event for all the kids) was the first event of the program, and times ranged from 9.1 seconds (54.1 kph) for the seasoned “pro's” to 28.84 for an 8 year old rider making his debute at the 138 metre indoor track in London Ontario.

The flying two laps (276 metres) tested the endurance and power of all the riders, with many racers setting their personal best times during the event.

In the third event of the afternoon the kids had to do a standing start timed lap. Again, for many of the young track racers this was their first attempt at a standing start .... There were a few wobbles and a couple of the youngest racers need a push to keep them upright, but I could tell that the parents of each racer in attendance were smiling at some of the struggles the kids had during the first 15 metres.

The day ended with a Pizza Party, medal presentation and t-shirt give away.

All the Future Olympians are now enrolled in the Mary Kelly's "Second" Club and have their goals set to make it to the next second on their Flying Laps in the coming months.

Report courtesy Rob Good