The state of Arizona has just made cycling history with the opening of the world’s first velodrome with an aluminum surface. The Tucson Velodrome, located in southeast Tucson, will officially open this Wednesday, November 12, with a ceremony attended by local officials and representatives of the cycling community.
The venue features a 250-meter Olympic-size track with 42-degree banked turns, designed by Canadian engineer Peter Junek, who has designed more than 30 velodromes worldwide. The facility is located within the Musselman Honda Circuit, a track commonly used for karts and motorsports, and was developed by the Southern Arizona Kart Club and the owning group, Tucson Velodrome, Inc.
A novel material to withstand extreme heat
Unlike most outdoor velodromes, which are built of concrete, the Tucson Velodrome uses aluminum as its track surface, a novel solution designed to withstand the high temperatures of the Arizona desert, where summers easily exceed 37°C (99°F).
This material guarantees greater durability, less maintenance, and allows for year-round use, something unthinkable with traditional surfaces.
The complex also includes an underground access tunnel, professional Musco lighting, grandstands, auxiliary services, and a multifunctional indoor area that will allow it to host concerts, social events, and sporting events.
According to project managers, “in addition to attracting professional and Olympic cyclists for training and competition, the velodrome will serve as a safe and controlled space for all enthusiasts, promoting health and sport from a young age.”
The creation of school and youth programs with certified coaches is also planned to introduce youngsters to the track.
With the opening of the Tucson Velodrome, Arizona is positioning itself as one of the new cycling hubs in the United States, combining cutting-edge infrastructure, a favorable climate, and a growing sporting culture. The investment in an aluminum velodrome represents an unprecedented innovation that could shape the future of track cycling.
Source: www.brujulabike.com