Geraint Thomas: Welsh cyclist backs petition to keep home cycling track
- Published
Geraint Thomas returned to Maindy Stadium in 2018 to promote the Tour of Britain
Tour de France 2018 champion Geraint Thomas has urged people to oppose plans to demolish his home cycling track.
The Maindy outdoor track is set to make way for a school expansion and will be replaced by a new velodrome at Cardiff Sports Village.
The track is home to the Maindy Flyers, where Thomas began his career.
"Without Maindy Stadium I'd have never fell in love with cycling, along with many kids," he said.
His fellow leading Welsh cyclists Elinor Barker, Owain Doull and Luke Rowe also got their starts on the track.
Thomas, 35, has backed a petition against the project which is subject to planning approval.
Cardiff councillor Russell Goodway told the of hopes for construction to begin on the new track "in early 2022".
A Cardiff Council spokesperson said: "Plans for the new velodrome in the Bay are supported by key cycling organisations including British Cycling, Welsh Cycling, Welsh Triathlon, the Maindy Flyers, Cardiff Ajax and many other cycling clubs across the region.
"They have been involved in helping us shape the specifications for the velodrome so it works for the majority of people who will want to use it, from beginners to professional riders.
"We look forward to sharing those plans with Geraint when he returns from Tokyo. His success has enthused a new generation of Welsh cyclists and we believe the new velodrome will give them the arena where they can learn to hone their skills creating new memories and new medal winners."
A spokesperson for Welsh Cycling said: "Welsh Cycling has been involved with Cardiff Council in the discussions about the relocation of the velodrome from Maindy to the Sports Village and is excited about the opportunities that this will bring for cycling.
"As well as Welsh Cycling's involvement throughout the process, British Cycling has also provided technical input. Furthermore, we have been assured of no lack of continuity of use between Maindy and the new facility.
"The development will include a purpose-built velodrome with modern facilities including a club house and spectator stand, along with a 1km closed road circuit and a large-format bike shop.
"We believe this will be a great facility to replace Maindy for existing users and provides an excellent opportunity to attract new cyclists to these exciting new facilities."