The Fast Track

New Web Site

2011-12-03T19:00:00.003-05:00

Please go to our new website http://www.clevelandvelodrome.org/ and/or follow us on Facebook. Become a member of our Founders Club or make a donation via our paypal account.

Update

2011-06-01T10:35:00.001-04:00

In November of 2009, Fast Track Cycling, Inc. entered into a purchase option agreement with the City of Cleveland to acquire an 8.9 acre parcel of land located along Broadway Avenue in the Slavic Village neighborhood. Since that time, Fast Track has been completing site due diligence and fundraising for its proposed project. Specifically, Fast Track has completed the following:

· ALTA survey;
· Soil borings;
· Plans and specs are 30% complete;
· Panzica Construction provided a detailed cost estimate;
· Project costs (land, hard and soft) estimated at $7,500,000;

Based on the above completed due diligence and the overall fundraising environment, the Board of Fast Track seeks to employ a phased strategy. As part of Phase I, Fast Track is finalizing a purchase agreement to acquire a portable velodrome track for $350,000. Fast Track has raised all but $20,000 of the money needed to acquire and operate the portable track. Per the schematic contained in Exhibit A, the dimensions would be 166 meter around by 5.5 meters wide. The area needed for this track is approximately 33,000 square feet (i.e. 234 feet by 140 feet). The velodrome track requires a flat site and is anchored in place by 12” x 12” concrete pads that are placed on the ground (no footers required). The track features bolt on construction and can be assembled and/or disassembled with about 50 man hours of labor. The photo below is of a 200 meter track located in Rochester Hills, MI that was built by the same builder Fast Track is working with.

In order to begin our programming and help raise additional funds for the $7,500,000 project, we would like to locate the track on NE corner of the smaller St. Michaels parcel (closest to Sokol Center) on a temporary basis. The track will be situated on the asphalt section of the smaller parcel with parking available on the western portion of the parcel. Please see Exhibit B for a proposed layout. The portable track has a construction lead time of about 60 to 90 days and we would like to have it operational this summer on or about August 1, 2011.

We are very eager to implement our programming which will be modeled after the Velodrome in Rochester Hills, MI. The programming would be volunteer run and available seven (7) days per week. Please see Exhibit C for details about the Programming. It will be available to kids from age 9 and up as well as adults.

As mentioned previously, Fast Track is prepared to purchase the portable velodrome track for $350,000. Or group has been hard at work and nearly all of the money has been raised as summarized below:

Sources of Funding Uses of Funding
Founders Club $50,000 (Pledged) Track Purchase $350,000
Gold Medal Club $25,000 (Pending) Site Work/Landscape $15,000
JAM Foundation $50,000 (Pledged) Equipment $10,000
Vendor Financing $230,000 (Committed) TOTAL $375,000
Gap $20,000
TOTAL $375,000

The Slavic Village site is preferred by our Board, but we are also considering other temporary and/or permanent sites for the portable track including locations in Cleveland as well as Cuyahoga, Lorain, Lake and Geauga counties. In order to move forward on the Slavic Village site, Fast Track would like to present the following for the City of Cleveland’s consideration:

· Via a lease or other usage agreement, allow Fast Track to locate the track on the smaller parcel for 18 to 36 months (at your discretion). We can remove the track from the site with 120 days written notice.
· Extend the purchase option agreement thru November 2012;
· Fast Track could maintain responsibility for upkeep of the parcel;
· Any operating surplus would be used for site improvements and beatification of the parcel(s);

The point of the phased strategy and purchasing a track now are to assist us in raising the $7,500,000 for the project (see Exhibit E for current rendering and schematics) and to develop our youth and adult programming.
Exhibit A
Exhibit B

Fast Track proposed to locate the portable track on the NE corner of the smaller parcel. It will site on the asphalt section of the smaller parcel with parking available on the western portion of the parcel.

Exhibit C

Exhibit E

Yahoo News Coverage

2010-06-02T15:35:00.004-04:00

Plans for indoor cycling facility in Cleveland are on the right track

Tue Jun 1, 3:04 pm ET

By Diane DiPiero, Associated Content

When it comes to plans for a new indoor cycling facility in Cleveland, no brakes are allowed.

Since announcing in January that it had entered a real estate purchase option agreement to build a 150,000-square-foot velodrome in Slavic Village, Fast Track Cycling has moved full speed ahead with acquiring funds for the project. Following an initial grant from the Civic Innovation Lab, Fast Track began a fundraising campaign that so far has brought in about $100,000 toward the $6.5 million that will be needed to build the facility.

The proposed facility would include a standard 250-meter wood cycling track, a 20,000-square-foot sport court and 75,000 square feet of turf field. In addition to drawing local cycling enthusiasts as well as international cycling races, the facility...

Click HERE to continue reading on Yahoo News

Yahoo News article on Cleveland Velodrome Plans

2010-04-02T00:53:00.003-04:00

From: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ac_clevela/ac_clevela_ts1409

Plans in motion for Cleveland's velodrome

Thu Apr 1, 11:40 am ET
By Diane DiPiero

Can an indoor cycling facility put Cleveland on the map as a hub for indoor recreation, help end childhood obesity and assist with the renaissance of an urban neighborhood?

It sounds like a tall order, but a group of avid cyclists, along with the city of Cleveland and a local development group, are speeding along with plans to make it happen.

Fast Track Cycling, a nonprofit organization formed by local cycling enthusiasts, is behind efforts to build a velodrome—an arena for track cycling—in Cleveland's Slavic Village. The group has an agreement to buy a 9-acre lot at McBride and Broadway avenues from the city of Cleveland. The site was the former location of St. Michael Hospital, which closed in 2003.

Click here to read the rest of the story on Yahoo! News

Publicity on the Tube

2010-02-01T15:37:00.004-05:00

We've been generating lots of buzz this past week... On Sunday, Channel 5 news aired this segment on the velodrome. The link to the video is beneath the picture at the top of the article. Thanks to all the news outlets and individuals spreading the message!

In other news, check out these related projects: the under-construction velodrome in Scotland and the efforts to build one in NYC!

The announcement of the first event at that Scottish velodrome has me thinking: wouldn't Cleveland's velodrome be such a great asset for our Gay Games in 2014?? Answer -- yes!!!

Velodrome plans announced!

2010-01-27T15:29:00.000-05:00

Well, today was a huge day for Fast Track, and long time coming at that.

We sent out our press release this morning, and are already seeing great write-ups online from The Cleveland Leader, Crain's Cleveland Business, and The Plain Dealer. Hoping to see a printed story in tomorrow's PD, and next week in the Scene -- word's getting 'round!

This blog (not updated since the summer, sheesh) will be showing updates more regularly as news unfolds at a more frequent pace... stay tuned, become a fan of our Facebook page, and if you're hip enough, keep up with our Twitter feed. Look for tasty bicycle quotes up there in the corner of our blog, too!

Here's the text of the press release:

FAST TRACK CYCLING, INC. PLANS 150,000-SQUARE-FOOT INDOOR SPORTS COMPLEX WITH OLYMPIC-STYLE VELODROME IN CITY OF CLEVELAND

Group contracts to purchase nine-acre site for an indoor multi-use recreational facility for track cycling and other recreational activities

CLEVELAND, January 27, 2010 – Fast Track Cycling, Inc., a Cleveland-based, non-profit 501(c) (3) organization, is pleased to announce that it has entered into a real estate purchase option agreement with the City of Cleveland to acquire a nine-acre vacant site formerly occupied by St. Michaels Hospital in Slavic Village. Fast Track plans to develop and operate an indoor recreational facility which will include a velodrome – a custom-built, banked bicycle track – as part of its mission to support track cycling and other recreational opportunities and promote health and wellness as well as youth programming.

Track cycling is a bicycle racing sport that is featured in the Olympic Games and held on specially built banked tracks or velodromes. Cleveland’s will be only the third indoor velodrome of the 25 in the United States, along with those in California and Colorado.

The project will help to revitalize the Slavic Village neighborhood as well as provide recreation, wellness and other services to children and adults. Current plans are to construct a 150,000-square-foot, air-supported dome structure that will house a 250-meter wood track, 75,000 square feet of turf field, 20,000 square feet of sport court, and other amenities. In addition to cycling, the facility will accommodate a multitude of recreational and sports activities including soccer, track and field, football, baseball, volleyball, basketball, running, walking, among many others. Fast Track has established strategic relationships with Sports Facilities Marketing Group (corporate sponsorships), Edward Howard (public relations), GPD Associates (project engineer) and Vocon Partners (project architect).

A detailed budget and operational projections have been developed. Overall project costs are estimated at $6,500,000. Fast Track is seeking naming rights sponsors, corporate sponsors, foundation grants, federal/state/local grants, and charitable donations from the cycling community.

To date, Fast Track has been funded by a $30,000 grant from Civic Innovation Lab and other donations totaling $7,000 while another $45,000 has been pledged for the capital campaign.

Fast Track is collaborating with Slavic Village Development Corporation and has received positive responses from the Mayor’s Office, members of City Council, and the Cleveland

Planning Commission. Fast Track plans to work closely with various neighborhood groups including Sokol Greater Cleveland.

“The sale and use of this vacant City Land Bank property for a Sports/Olympic-style cycling training center is a welcomed economic opportunity and major boost for Cleveland’s Slavic Village neighborhood,” said Mayor Frank G. Jackson. “With the makings of both a regional and national draw, the proposed cycling center will cast a new light on Slavic Village by generating a sense of pride with benefits that will include job creation, business opportunities, health benefits, and more.”

“Bringing a velodrome and recreational facility to the Broadway/Slavic Village community will not only add an important recreational amenity for residents,” said Ward 5 Councilwoman Phyllis Cleveland, “but it will also bring in visitors and economic growth to the area.”

“This is a terrific opportunity for Slavic Village,” said Marie Kittredge, Executive Director of Slavic Village Community Development Corporation. “The velodrome is a perfect fit for us, because of our central location, and our community’s commitment to active lifestyles and physical fitness. The velodrome will complement our two new athletic fields, the First Tee Golf Course and our Morgana Bike Trail.”

The Slavic Village site is located at McBride Avenue and Broadway Avenue (southeast of the intersection of East 49^th Street and Broadway) and offers proximity to all of greater Cleveland, with excellent freeway access to I-77, I-90, I-71, I-490 and I-480.

The 14-member volunteer Board of Trustees has legal, business and finance, political, non-profit, fundraising, construction, and cycling backgrounds. Four board committees include:

Site Selection/Acquisition
Fundraising/Corporate Sponsors
Governance
Facilities/Operations.

Project Benefits

Health & wellness – all abilities, all access, all community
Youth programming
Urban redevelopment
Year-round community, recreational, elite and regional use
Nationally unique venue to attract and retain young, active adults to Northeast Ohio
Appeal to a growing market – Cleveland area cyclists
Ability to host regional, national and international events throughout the year
Potential training center for Olympic and professional cyclists (road and track)

Frame Raffle and Party!

2009-06-10T09:35:00.000-04:00

Dan Polito, the owner of Cicli Polito (http://www.ciclipolito.com), is donating one custom built track frame and fork to the winner of the raffle. This locally handcrafted track bike frame is valued at over $2,000. Mr. Polito won “Best in Show” at the 2009 Handmade Bicycle Show held in Indianapolis, IN.

Tickets: Raffle tickets are $20 per ticket or 6 for $100;

When: Raffle will be held Wednesday June 24th at 7:00pm;

Where: Join us at Brothers Lounge at 11609 Detroit Ave (W. 117th & Detroit) from 4:00pm to 8:00pm; complimentary food and a cash bar. It’s a party!

The proceeds of the raffle will benefit Fast Track Cycling, Inc. (http://fasttrackcycling.org) and their efforts to construct an indoor velodrome in the greater Cleveland area.

In conjunction with the raffle, there will be a short (15 minute) presentation by board members of Fast Track Cycling to provide an update to the cycling community about the status of the very exciting Indoor Velodrome Project.

For tickets or questions, please drop me a line at bdavis@ironwood-dev.com.

Hope you can make it.

Best,

Brett Davis
President, Fast Track Cycling, Inc.

Update and Photos from the Fundraiser

2009-04-08T09:37:00.000-04:00

I'm working a new contract job in SoCA so this is a bit late.

We raised $380.00 from the event at the Blind Pig. Thanks to all that showed up to support us.

We Know Where You''ll Be March 26th at 5-9PM

2009-03-11T22:11:00.000-04:00

Dave is setting this up....

The bar tabs go to Fast Track Cycling and Dave will be raffling off some free stuff.

A frame, fork, cranks, and wheelset from alien bikes.
A bag from seagull bags
A bag from dirtbag packworks
A subscription to urban velo
A prize basket from the grog shop.

We hope to see you there!

Fast Track Board Meeting

2009-03-11T20:58:00.000-04:00

Our board meeting was Tuesday. We are making progress and things are still looking positive for the Salvic Village Site.....it's just not moving quickly enough for us or we know you either.

The wool jerseys ($199.00 ea) and race kit ($99.00 ea) tops will now be available at three area bike shops:

- Bike Authority

7979 Broadview Rd

Broadview Hts, OH

440-546-9966

- Spin Bike Shop
14515 Madison Ave

Lakewood, OH

216-521-7746

- Solon Bike Shop

6291 SOM Center Rd

Solon, OH

440-349-5225

Supplies are very limited and once they are gone, we will not be offering the exact same design and the avaibility may not be until the end of the year.

The bike raffle for the custom built track bike is moving forward and a winner will be drawn on June 22nd. Tickets are $20.00 ea or 6 for $100.00. Any board member can sell you the tickets.

BTW, Dan Polito, who is donating the bike, won "Best of Show" at the North American Handmade Bike Show just a few weeks ago! It will be built to fit the winner.

We will keep the updates coming.

Assorted Photos....

2009-01-24T15:12:00.001-05:00

Some pictures from the Cyclocross fund raiser.......

The first photo:

Brett Davis (President) presenting a check to Greg Huth (Treasurer) for $500.00 from the Chagrin River Cyclocross Race.

The second photo

Me and Matt Litzler at the race volunteering (standing in front of the Fast Track Banner).

A Nice Link.....

2009-01-09T16:54:00.000-05:00

I was doing some research on track measurements and saw this.....about our web site.

Custom Bike Raffle

2008-11-20T16:04:00.000-05:00

Don't forget about this cool raffle......

a $20.00 ticket gives you the chance at a chi-chi

Track Bike Frame and Fork Raffle
Cicli Polito is building a limited edition
track bike (one). It will be a work of art
custom built for the winner.

Drawing will be the first quarter of 2009.

See; three things you can buy for that cyclist fan that will make them feel good and go towards our non-profit.

Racing Jerseys Available

2008-11-06T22:31:00.000-05:00

There are only 6 of these still available.

A prime for a $99.00 donation. ($99.00 is tax deductible)

Racing Kit Jersey-
The first dozen or so have been
generously donated by Pyro apparel.
Patterned after geonetric styles of retro
racing track jerseys in CBC colors

Please note that there is no white area on the front.

Please contact us at velodrome4c@gmail.com if interested in these.

Wool Jerseys Still Available

2008-11-06T22:24:00.000-05:00

There are a very limited amount of the wool jerseys still available.

Old School Jersey : A prime for a $199 donation. ($124 is tax deductible) - this is a unique design, a collectable limited run of only 50

(Only 27 left!). ordering info with sizing

These washable 100% Merino Wool jerseys are very classically designed with Cleveland's century of track cycling history in mind. Our project is legally connected to the Cleveland Bicycle Club which began in 1879. (read our history section on the website!) The CBC logo is displayed prominently on the front. The font for Cleveland Velodrome is based on a Cleveland area Cycling Route Book from the 1890's. Orange and Blue are officially CBC colors- this jersey is styled after a race kit from the 70's

You can order them at the website.

Chagrin Falls Cyclocross Race

2008-11-06T11:40:00.000-05:00

Well, 84 racers showed up and enjoyed the music, costumes, racing and beer.....and cowbell.

Fast Track Cycling will receive $500.00 from the proceeds of the race.

Results can be found here.

Photos can be found here.

Thanks for all of the volunteers, the racers, the sponsors and the people that came out to cheer on the racers and enjoy the race.

Cyclocross & Track Racing?

2008-10-30T19:30:00.000-04:00

What does Cyclocross & Track Racing have in common?

Well, this Cyclocross race Saturday will donate all of the proceeds to Fast Track Cycling.

It's a great venue and there will be a beer garden, great music and racers wearing costumes.

Hope to see you there!

A Letter of Support

2008-10-08T22:04:00.000-04:00

Fast Track Cycling just received a Letter of Support from Phyllis Cleveland, Councilwoman, Ward 5.

We should be hearing if this is a "go" on this site in the very near future.

Congrats to Local Jr. Track Cyclists at Nationals

2008-08-18T14:11:00.001-04:00

I dont know results for the entire team yet, but I picked this up from USA Cycling's website:
Congrats to local Jr. Track Cyclist Eric Madis on third place in Jr Mens 10-12 500 Meter TT.
Keep at it Eric!

hope this helps...

2008-08-18T13:34:00.000-04:00

The Fast Track Board made the decision on the site to pursue. We are putting together paperwork etc to finalize things, so should be able to have an official press release soon.

I am very pleased with this site to focus on- so encouraged by the surrounding community and their progressive outlook for cycling. The dynamics of this location reduces the price down considerably for a complete civic oriented center with fitness gym, pro shop, cafe and concessions, - very doable!

We have begun organizing the official Capital Campaign- Ideally the timeline: 6-9 months for fundraising then groundbreaking, 9 months for construction. So its doable to be open in a year and a half- ("but not without you" is my new saying)

Thanks so much for your interest!

NPR coverage

2008-08-15T15:01:00.000-04:00

Photo by Rick

Civic Innovation Lab generously provided booth space at the past weekend's Burning River Festival. It was a great way to talk with many people about the progress we've made. Also a pleasure to meet Program Director Mark Urycki of WKSU Kent- he seemed very interested in the project and asked many questions. Then he brought out his tape recorder- my first interview for NPR....

Plain Dealer

2008-05-12T21:16:00.000-04:00

The Velodrome project got a pretty good write up in the Plain Dealer today:
in the Whatever Happened To.... column

Northcoast Flatland BMX- Saturday May 24th

2008-05-06T18:53:00.000-04:00

more info and registration HERE

Proposed location

2008-05-01T10:28:00.000-04:00

Many people ask where the track will be. That is of course a crucial question. With details of negotiations still to work out, all I can say is that we believe the Berea region, for Greater Cleveland centrality, to be the best option. We have made considerable progress with defining the requirements by the County and our project numbers. It would be a tremendous help if NE Ohio residents could contact the County Commissioners office to make them aware of your support.
The person designated to work with us is (kinda moot now)

Flatland BMX at the Galleria

2008-04-29T18:10:00.000-04:00

The Galleria is letting us host the regional Flatland BMX Saturday May 24th. Inside, at the East Court.
For more info about this growing sport- the Voodoo nationals are in New Orleans on May 30th.

This is sure to be a fun event to see. Check back to our website for more details soon.

Founder's Club

2008-04-21T10:17:00.000-04:00

Thank you to these new members of the Founders Club, who received a jersey with a $200 donation-

Greg Jackson
Sherman McKee
David Walkowiak
Paul Bedell
Gary Burkholder
Matt Litzler
John Bodell
Brad Beeson
Mark Horton

Three Pocket Old School Jerseys are in!

2008-04-10T14:23:00.000-04:00

They were held up in customs for a few weeks, but they've arrived here at the office today. They look so sharp!
Available online from our website

Rubber City Alley Cat

2008-03-24T13:06:00.000-04:00

Akron, Ohio's first alley cat!
Saturday, April 5th, 2008- A bike race of epic proportions. Featuring checkpoints all around the city, a "king of the mountains" challenge, prizes for the winners and participants, and an after party at The Matinee, 812 West Market Street, Akron, OH 44303, featuring Birds & Elephants & Social Insecurity. Between the race and after party join Akron Food Not Bombs for a free dinner fit for a rubber burning cyclist.
$10, 2pm Check-In, 3pm Race
Meet at 812 West Market Street, Akron, OH 44303
the race flyer here

First FUNdraisers

2008-03-23T21:38:00.000-04:00

Just about finishing the planning stages for our first FUNdraisers. Looking forward to them!
So far: a weekly group ride with a local twist, a mini-film festival with a dinner and auction at a downtown restaurant, an art show during Cleveland Bike Week, and more.
And yes, the much awaited 3 pocket jerseys should arrive this week!

New Office

2008-03-17T14:41:00.000-04:00

Fast Track has opened our new office-
1663 Main St. Downstairs
Peninsula, OH 44264
(still the same phone number.)

the second building up the hill from the bridge,
just across the river from the towpath.

3-D models- Proposed Layout

2008-03-11T13:08:00.001-04:00

The architect has told me that it is transluscent looking in, as well as looking out. Keep in mind the structure is 110 feet high, maintaining comfortable temperatures year round.

rendering of our velodrome

2008-02-25T10:49:00.002-05:00

This is a scan of the cross section rendering of our velodrome.
350'wide x700' long x 110' high. The ends are clear, the top is alternating clear and translucent.

Inspirations

2008-02-06T13:12:00.000-05:00

It will be a year that I started working on this full time on Feb 15. I had mulled about it for a couple years, but I decided to dedicate my efforts 100%. These people were my inspirations:

Erik Weihenmayer, the blind alpine climber who scaled Everest. Why?
It didnt matter all the people who said why he shouldnt, he was determined to do it. He didnt let his challenges become limitations. Being the first person to do it blind, he would have to learn each step as he went, and he couldnt do it alone- he needed a large team of people who believed in the idea also.

Kyle MacDonald, who started with a paper clip and traded up to house in a year. This velodrome is no different but on a different scale. Last year, I had $2000 and a concept on an old laptop. I am a self employed artist, so I could work during the day on the velodrome full time. I understood this project is all about leverage, and if he could accomplish that, this velodrome is possible for Cleveland. Everyone who has helped in any way got us to the next level.
So one year later, I am very pleased to be this far, with everyone's help- especially the Board and people who have contributed. (read the other post from today... ) THANK YOU

Progress

2008-02-06T12:50:00.000-05:00

For all the people who read this- (thank you Bike Messengers of Cleveland- your encouragement keeps me going...) You should know just how far we've made it.

In a development like this, the business plan is intensive and extensive. 5 year financial projections, feasibility studies, operations, management, economic impact, etc, etc has to be researched by knowledgeable professionals. We are 99% done with the Pro Forma, maybe 50% done with the rest of it.

But the most important thing is the Architectural plans are 95% complete, with renderings- we know what its going to look like. It is phenomenal. There is no other velodrome like this in the world. Hugh Downs is making a documentary called "Buildings of the Future" and this type of building is one of them. This structure is "Green" off the charts. It also reduces the cost of the entire project in half , operating costs in half, and the whole thing, track and all, can be completed in 6 months.

So now you can see I am focused on funding. Cleveland has this chance to accomplish something truly internationally significant.

Website Store with Visa is online

2007-12-21T09:40:00.000-05:00

Of course the primes are listed on our website, with sizing info.
This makes it REALLY EASY to donate!

http://www.fasttrackcyclingstore.com

Meet the Champions Breakfast

2007-12-19T09:40:00.000-05:00

As a recipient of the Civic lab's Grant, I was asked to give an informal presentation and answer questions about our project. Cool Cleveland was there, and wrote up a paragraph on their latest email (scroll almost to the bottom, to Instant Karma)

On the Cover of Velo News

2007-12-09T09:21:00.000-05:00

OK- so its not on the cover (Dec 3, 2007) but they published my Letter to the Editor. :-)
Although it was greatly reduced, and they took most of the cases out that proved my point...
Here is the letter: (I've included in blue the parts they edited out.)

After reading the preface to John Wilcockson’s Soap Box article touting the “Inaugural and Still Only Tour of America” in 1983, and that it was only 3 days long; I had to write. I believe you are underestimating America’s history and influence in cycling of a century ago. It is only a matter of semantics that the 1895 American National Grand Circuit is not designated a “true” Grand Tour.

A century ago, American versus Continental bike racing was greatly affected by politics and road conditions. The League of American Wheelmen was formed in 1880 and was committed to promoting amateur racing. However, bicycle companies began hiring racers known as “scorchers” to promote their various models. The L.A.W. began identifying professionals and banned sandbaggers from races. More importantly, the L.A.W. had a rule against Sunday racing, which is when the professionals could attract the biggest crowds. That consigned American promoters to hosting professional events on the track.

By 1895, the American National Circuit of track cycling spanned coast to coast. The season was well organized on a national scale with 53 cities hosting multi-day schedules of full day programs and 10 additional stops; it was followed by every newspaper as the major sport of the day. It began on Decoration Day in the Northeast and traveled across the country, finishing with November races in California. Quoting from a newspaper race report: “The national circuit for 1895 represents the climax of racing achievement, and a brief glance at the important dates will disclose as much of interest as was commemorated in sounding measures by the bards of old, when the Greek Olympiads drew the attention of the then known world.” (Cleveland Plain Dealer 3/8/1896) The largest day of spectators was 11,000 people in Dayton Ohio. Only 4 men were able to race the entire 140+ days on the 6 month schedule.

1896 brought a familiar debate: “ ..the manufacturers, who in years gone by have borne the expense of these long tours from coast to coast, are going to count the cost before they send out teams to secure a questionable amount of advertising… Constant Improvement in travelling facilities is making the world smaller every day, but the United States is still too large for cycle racing under the national circuit system, …But one man went through the entire circuit in good condition, and that only through clever management…”(Cycling Gazette)

Fast forward almost 10 years- by this time in America, virtually all professional racing was done on enclosed tracks where admission could be charged. Most amateurs raced on the road. In Europe, where they boasted good road systems built over millennia, road racing predominated. 1903 was the first year and humble beginnings for The Tour De France. It was a promotion for a newspaper, with only 6 stages. The journal organisateur, L'Auto provided one director, Géo Lefèvre, as the judge and time-keeper; Henri Desgrange was the directeur-général, although he did not follow the race. There were no teams; all entrants were individuals and paid a fee of 10 francs. No offense meant, but at that time the Tour paled in comparison to the national organization of American professional cycling.

Europeans stayed faithful to the sport of cycling, but within decades, Americans became enamored with motorsports. The very same financially successful professional cyclists at the turn of the century upped the ante with speed: Cooper funded Henry Ford with Barney Oldfield their first driver. Albert Champion developed the spark plug company; Lois Chevrolet is synonymous with GM. Carl Fisher went from promoting velodrome races to founding the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Indy 500.

In other words, although I admire the efforts of the Societe du Tour de France to get a foothold in American cycling in 1983 with a 3 day Grand Tour, they were by no means the first to organize such an event on a national scale here. It will take tremendous organization, funding, and, and years of fan development to match the 1895 National Grand Circuit.

-Anna Gerrodette
President, Fast Track Cycling
Cleveland Ohio

John Wilkockson’s reply that Its apples-to-oranges to compare a track race series with a road stage race is exactly my point- it’s a question of semantics. The professional race organizers were forced by L.A.W.to host any sort of series on the track. To include the whole country required 53 cities- an amazingly organized event.

Old School Molteni 3-pocket Jersey

2007-11-26T22:12:00.000-05:00

Old School Jersey Update: We have placed the first Jersey Order today! We expect them to arrive in Feb-early March. We are accepting pre-orders, as a prime for a $199 donation. This is a unique design, and will be a collectable limited run of only 50. Become a member of the Cleveland Bicycle Club by supporting the Velodrome.

These washable 100% Merino Wool jerseys are very classically designed with Cleveland's century of track cycling history in mind. Our project is legally connected to the Cleveland Bicycle Club which began in 1879. (read our history section on the website) The CBC logo is displayed prominently on the front. The font for Cleveland Velodrome is based on a Cleveland area Cycling Route Book from the 1890's. Orange and Blue are officially CBC colors- this jersey is styled after a race kit from the 70's.

From Earth Wind and Rider's catalog describing this style:

Remember the days of old when plain and simple was the norm. You’re not one to make bold statements. You know your rights. You know your cause. Your purpose is clear. You are practical in your performance but not in your beliefs. This jersey was made for you. Pure function and classic style with modern-day washability. This medium-weight, 100% Australian Wool Jersey carries the comfort of the 2 x 2 ribbed cuff and collar with hemmed waist. Hell, it even looks great with jeans.

6 ½” front zip with rear 3 pocket construction.

We are updating the website to accept donations now that we have merchandise. Keep in touch- better yet- email us: velodrome4c@gmail.com

Cyclocross race this Saturday

2007-11-05T12:50:00.000-05:00

To help spread the word for this cyclocross race on Nov 10th, I'm posting their info here on our blog-

THIS SATURDAY!!!!

Help spread the word and pass this on to all your racer friends please.

Team Spin presents the " Cross My Heart and Hope To Die Willoughby Cyclocross Spectatular"

"A" Racers..... The cash goes deep!!!!!!

Men: 1)$200 + GC, 2)$150, 3)$100, 4)$80, 5)$70, 6)$60, 7)$50, 8)$40, 9)$30, 10)$20

Women: 1)$100 + GC, 2)$75, 3)$50, 4)$30, 5)$20

Merchandise prizes all other categories!

FIRST LAP "PRIMES" FOR EVERY CATEGORY!!!!

Pista Elite Track Bike Racing

2007-10-30T09:24:00.000-04:00

Pista is organizing the inaugural series of Track Racing and Training will begin May 2008. Sponsored by Fast Track Cycling, the first session will be 8 weeks on Thursday evenings, with a state level championship.

Racers can look forward to several race formats, primes, and weekly payouts. For cyclists new to the fixed-gear sport, training and coaching will be available. Costs will be similar to the Westlake Crit Series. Junior Cycling Development will be sponsored by Pista Elite. For youth under 18, there are no club dues- coaching, clothing, and equipment are provided.

Until the Velodrome track is constructed, it will be hosted at the Lorain County Speedway (about 1/2 hour west of Cleveland) www.lorainspeedway.com Other successful track cycling programs on similar tracks are in New Hampshire www.leadcycling.com and Asheville, NC www.mellowdrome.com

Interbike 2007

2007-10-07T13:44:00.000-04:00

We thought attending the Interbike convention would be a great way to meet the industry leaders, get committments and contacts for support along with a buzz for the Velodrome out.

We did meet with Tom Ritchey, Bob Roll, Saul Raisin, Dave Koesel, Patrick Smith, Dave Byer to name a few along with folks from VeloNews & Rider.

That and we saw some innovative track bikes and spoke to most of the companies that produced them.

Ritchey has a new single speed BAB road bike out. Felt, Cerve'lo (soon), Bianchi, Colonago, Pegoretti, Eddy Merckx, Cinelli, Tommasini to name but just a few had sweet rides at the show. Raleigh and others had messenger-style bikes on display also.

It was a long three days and we were exchausted at the end.

Big thanks goes to Sherman McKee of The Bike Authority and Dick Brink of Business to Business Bicycle Sales for helping us with connections. The contacts we made and the amount of support made the trip worthwhile.

Stay Tuned.....

Summit to Donate Proceeds from The Fall Challenge Race

2007-09-04T17:31:00.000-04:00

September 9 The Summit Freewheelers are promoting a road race in Peninsula/Cuyahoga Falls and would like to donate 100% of the proceeds to the Velodrome project. The weather was not the best, but the volunteers and the racers made it a great race. We ended up getting a $300.00 donation from them and we really appreciate it!

Click HERE for the link to Summit

Here are photos of the winners from the race in front of the banner; I'll update with the names/places real soon....thanks again Summit for the donation and for the racers!

Big News Coming This Week

2007-09-04T17:29:00.000-04:00

We are going to announce some big news at our Board meeting this Thursday!

Stay Tuned!

Cleveland Velodrome Potential Site Visit

2007-08-15T13:54:00.000-04:00

This was a "meet and greet" at the proposed site of the track that took place on 7-18-07 from 5-9PM. Things have not been finalized but discussions were going well enough to warrant this event. Drawings of the site, literature and flags showing the scope of the facility were out.

Riders that were with the Spin Bike shop group ride stopped by; thanks for showing up and for everyone that attended!

Stay Tuned.....

Ingenuity Festival

2007-08-15T13:29:00.000-04:00

The Ingenuity Festival was the first foray into the public as Fast Track Cycling. We made some very good contacts; right up to the point of when all heck broke loose and a storm rolled in and tore the place up. Luckily, we were able to dismantle the display before it was damaged. The Festival was well put on and the "track" received a lot of interest. We are really happy with how the banner turned out. Way to go Giraffe, Inc. !

Stay Tuned.....

ADT Visit

2007-08-15T12:29:00.000-04:00

We visited the above on 7-6-07 to meet with Robert from ADT. In a very candid conversation much was learned about the operations of the facility. The track is absolutely world class and Robert had suggestions on what to do for the Cleveland Velodrome. Then it was fun time....getting on some Felt track bikes, getting instruction from Robert and taking some laps on the track!

Website is Up

2007-05-08T19:56:00.000-04:00

Check out the new Website: www.fasttrackcycling.org
still a little work left on it but mostly done.

First Grant

2007-04-17T23:55:00.000-04:00

Just a quick note. We've been given a grant which pays tuition to the Grantseeker's Training Institute at the Foundation Center. A milestone, since its our first one, and kind of funny that I got the grant to pay for grant seeking..... I know it may seem small but very encouraging- this whole project is all leverage.
Kudos to Bernie Sokolowski for working on the logo- it looks sharp so far.

Letters of Support

2007-04-15T07:48:00.000-04:00

This is one way our cycling community can participate and make a big difference at this point. If you are involved in any cycling group or organization, put your two cents in toward your group that you want to see a velodrome here. I will be contacting various teams and clubs during the week to ask for a short one or two paragraphs explaining your interest in seeing this happen. I dont want to miss anyone, so contact velodrome4c @ gmail.com for any information. This with your pledges makes a strong impression with grant requests and the City. Much Appreciated!

Bring the Gold Home!

Feasibility Study

2007-03-31T11:19:00.000-04:00

Our first Board meeting went well. Many details were decided, but most important is that we have begun the Feasibility Study. It is necessary for any non-profit project of this scale.

Thank you for your continued interest!

A Nudge

2007-03-24T09:09:00.000-04:00

I just want to say that a major positive point I want to point out in our upcoming grant requests is your community support for the project. It is an impressive fact that with only 50 emails, word of mouth, and this blog- you've pledged this amount so far.
May I mention that the next application is due the first week in April? It would certainly be beneficial to keep pledging to show your support....
Thanks again!

Stellar

2007-03-21T08:34:00.000-04:00

So far, it has been a year of concept, then two months of solid focus on the velodrome. When our project started gaining financial support, I felt I should "test the water" to see how many people would stand behind it. I sent out one email to about 50 cyclists to see how far it would go. Your responses have been stellar... in just the first week, cyclists have pledged almost $5000. Even got two pledges from the Columbus area. Thank You! This is another important milestone.
In other news, there is major work with writing grant proposals for two deadlines in April. Also, we are preparing our presentation approach. When we make more progress and the time is right, we should be able to put out a press release to the public.
We are working hard, and Life's Good,
The Fast Track Cycling Coalition

Incentive

2007-03-12T21:13:00.000-04:00

We are going to place a shiny plaque on the track of people who are the Founding Contributers.
But we need the more people the better- please pledge any amount- no donations at this point. Thanks much!
This is nicely written, its good to see strong support from cyclists.
http://rollitjohndavis.blogspot.com
http://sssmst.googlepages.com

The Wheelsets In Motion

2007-03-12T18:46:00.000-04:00

Hi All,

As you may have heard- there is buzz about a velodrome in Cleveland. We thought we should start a blog to update anyone who wants to know about our progress. We will have a website up soon.

The project started over a year ago with three of us in a pub saying, "Wouldnt it be great if we could ride in the winter....." How many Cleveland riders haven't thought that?

Defining what should be done first and how to get there has been key; more than once we've compared the project to an expedition up Everest. The past couple months have been encouraging, enough to say we have packed our bags....

Presently we have located a few sites with good potential; we are beginning discussion with the City to go over preliminary details.

Most importantly, as of the first half of March, we have funding commitments over $100,000 toward building the track. Will keep you posted-

Life's Good

Pledge Sheet

2007-03-12T06:12:00.000-04:00

Ok, you knew this was coming, Right?

As of the first half of March, we have funding commitments over $100,000. But most of this may be considered Matching Funds. One of the parameters is that the money raised cannot be from one individual donor; they want to see commitment from the bicycling community, hence, the requirement of a Pledge Sheet.

So this is where we need you. As of the latest census research (and believe me, I've done a lot of research, :-) , there are at least 113,000 road cyclists and 130,000 mt bikers in Cuyahoga County. Altogether there are 685,000 cyclists counting the surrounding counties too. We have the potential for a solid list.

We are not asking for a certain amount of money- only a pledge promise of whatever you feel you would like to contribute. Most importantly, we need to show the cycling community is supportive of the idea, so as many people as possible will make the best impression.

We thought the best way to assemble the Pledge Sheet is by email- velodrome4c@gmail.com Just send your name, an email address, and whatever you would like to pledge.

Thank you! I look forward to hearing from you.
Guess thats it for now- back to the paperwork

Life's Good