The UCI World Cycling Centre (WCC) – the training and education centre of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), based in Aigle, Switzerland – announces the opening of a new UCI WCC Continental Development Satellite in Cambridge, New Zealand.
The Grassroots Trust Velodrome, training ground of New Zealand’s national track cyclists, was officially awarded the UCI WCC Continental Development Satellite label on 26 March. It is the first such satellite on the Oceanian continent, joining the network of existing UCI WCC satellites in Japan (Shuzenji), Korea (Yeongju), South Africa (Paarl), India (New Delhi), Portugal (Anadia), Trinidad and Tobago (Couva), Canada (Bromont), and Argentina (San Juan).
With a focus on helping to develop emerging cycling nations, through their regional programmes and educational activities, these satellites are essential partners for the UCI WCC in its mission to develop athletes and train people for careers in cycling, such as mechanics and coaches.
UCI WCC Director Jacques Landry was in Cambridge for the opening: "The UCI World Cycling Centre’s Continental Development Satellites play a vital role in the development of cycling worldwide. We work closely with our Satellites, which are strategically located around the world to ensure that talented athletes and their entourage can benefit from the best possible training and education opportunities.
“The Grassroots Trust Velodrome already has a proven track record of helping athletes realise their full potential, and we look forward to working with the teams in Cambridge and the region to ensure their expertise can benefit the maximum number of people in Oceania.”
Oceania Cycling Confederation President Tony Mitchell said: “The Cambridge Grassroots Trust Velodrome becoming a UCI WCC Continental Development Satellite marks a significant development in Oceania’s capability and capacity to deliver world class programmes for athletes, coaches, mechanics and Commissaires. Cambridge offers the perfect location to support all major disciplines including road, track, BMX Racing and mountain bike. We look forward to working closely with the team at Cambridge on programmes that will support all our National Federations.”
General Manager of the Grassroots Trust Velodrome Dion Merson said: “The establishment of a UCI WCC Continental Development Satellite Centre in Cambridge, New Zealand signifies a monumental step in both New Zealand and international cycling development. It symbolises an investment in nurturing talent, fostering innovation, and promoting a culture of excellence. This initiative not only elevates the sport but also enriches the wider community by inspiring generations to embrace the transformative power and joy of cycling which in turn benefits health and wellbeing.”
Find out more about the UCI WCC Continental and Regional Development Satellites
Photo (left to right): Simon Perry, Chair of Home of Cycling Charitable Trust; Jacques Landry, UCI World Cycling Centre Director; Tony Mitchell, President of Oceania Cycling Confederation; John McDonnell, Education and Development Head of Home of Cycling Charitable Trust.