PRESERVING THE STORIES OF
NORCAL VELODROMES
Northern California has a rich yet overlooked history of velodrome racing dating back to the dawn of bicycle racing in the US. What follows is an online archive intended to coalesce and preserve the available reference material of these velodromes, in turn, telling as much of the stories of these bicycle racing venues as possible. Hope you enjoy their stories.
About
Northern California has played a pivotal role in the history of American velodrome racing, with tracks that once stood at the center of their communities and cycling culture. From the earliest wooden board tracks of the late 19th and early 20th centuries to modern concrete and asphalt velodromes, these venues produced champions, hosted legendary races, and inspired generations of riders. Many of these tracks have since disappeared, leaving behind stories, photographs, and memories scattered across archives and personal collections.
This project exists to gather, preserve, and share that history in one living archive. Through carefully researched timelines, imagery, and firsthand accounts, we aim to honor the builders, racers, volunteers, and fans who kept track racing alive in Northern California. Our goal is not only to document the past, but to ensure that the legacy of velodrome racing continues to inspire future cyclists, historians, and communities.
Links
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