Sports Park Hawke's Bay

Hawke’s Bay Regional Sports Trust chair Lawrence Yule says the region will be a strong contender for a velodrome following the government’s announcement today.

Mr Yule said Hawke’s Bay’s bid ticks all the boxes to be the home of a velodrome and “stands out” as the only suitable option.

He added the region was a clear favourite for competitive and recreational cyclists and the Unison Velodrome will complete the other sports to be catered for at the Regional Sports Park.

“We recently had hundreds of cyclists here from throughout New Zealand for nationals and the clear message we got was that Hawke’s Bay is the capital of cycling in the country.

“Hawke’s Bay has the best climate, the best cycling terrain and cycling routes and two of the strongest cycling clubs in New Zealand.

He added that elite track cyclist Ali Shanks recently spent a week training in Hawke’s Bay as part of her build up to competing overseas.

Hawke’s Bay’s fundraising campaign is also ahead of the other regions bidding with over $6 million committed including $1m from Unison as naming right sponsor.

The Unison Velodrome will cost up to $15m and will cater for riders from elite levels to recreational riders. It will be built to international specifications and the inner area will be used for netball, tennis and futsal.

“When Ali was here she said New Zealand’s only current velodrome in Southland is used heavily by the entire community. It’s not just for elite riders but riders of all ages and ability.

It is estimated that the velodrome would generate $4.5 million in its first five years of operation.

Mr Yule said the Regional Sports Park Trust would announce its community campaign shortly with the aim of proving to Government decision makers that Hawke’s Bay is the only option for a velodrome.

“We’ll be calling on everyone in Hawke’s Bay to back the campaign for the Unison Velodrome. We’ll also be putting together a compelling business case to why the region is the most suitable velodrome site.

Olympic track champion Sarah Ulmer is also urging the Hawke’s Bay community to get behind the velodrome bid.

Sarah says having a velodrome in the North Island will further enhance New Zealand’s growing reputation and success on the world stage of track racing.

“What a cracker opportunity for you! Hope you guys get really behind the campaign and give it loads of support.

“Imagine what it will do for the community and you’ll continue to churn out budding Westley Gough’s before you know it,” she said.

Ramblers Cycling Club spokesperson Ivan Aplin says Hawke’s Bay has the best case to the North Island’s cycling centre.

The Ramblers Club is one the strongest club in New Zealand, Central Hawke’s Bay also has a strong club and then we have a strong mountain biking club and multisport club.

“I’ve been to the Southland Velodrome and its popular and heavily used by everyone.

For more information please contact Lawrence Yule 027 249 6206