The inaugural CymruVelo Track Cup proved to be a resounding success, attracting top cycling talent from around the globe to the Geraint Thomas National Velodrome of Wales. The event, organised by Newport Live and Welsh Cycling, showcased thrilling races and remarkable performances over the two days.
Welsh athletes, including Rhys Britton and Joe Holt, showcased their strength in both the points and tempo race, earning admiration from the home crowd. The Women's Keirin saw the presence of World Champion Emma Hinze, making her debut on the Newport boards, ultimately delivering a masterful performance to clinch the title along with victories in the Women's 500m TT and Sprint events. Hinze also set a track record in the women’s 500m TT with a time of 33.787.
The return of Lewis Oliva in the Men’s Keirin after a five-year hiatus, created a poignant moment for the crowd. Whereas the Men’s Scratch Race saw Josh Charlton continuing his fine form, while Jess Roberts claimed victory in the Women’s Omnium after a captivating points race. The Men’s Madison, a thrilling 120-lap event, saw GB pairing Matt Brennan and Jed Smithson emerge victorious.
The CymruVelo Track Cup also provided a platform for the next generation of track riders, with youth boys and girls participating in an Omnium event. Ryan Oldfield and Esmee Bone emerged as winners in the boys and girls categories, respectively.
Nepwort Festiva also held as part of the Geraint Thomas National Velodrome's 20th anniversary and Welsh Cycling 50th anniversary celebration drew in 100 enthusiastic kids for a dynamic cycling celebration. The festiva embraced the versatility of cycling with pump track challenges, design a jersey competition, children cycling sessions, BMX flatland displays, and more.
Chief Executive Office at Newport Live, Steve Ward, said, “The CymruVelo Track Cup, held from November 3rd to 4th, has set a new benchmark for track cycling events in Wales, showcasing incredible talent and passion. This event, held in conjunction with Welsh Cycling, was a fitting tribute to the Geraint Thomas National Velodrome's 20th anniversary and Welsh Cycling 50th anniversary. We are thrilled and grateful to all participants, spectators, and sponsors. The success of the Newport Festiva, with 100 young people taking part in a celebration of cycling, adds another layer of achievement to the weekend of festivities. This is just the beginning, and we look forward to future editions, continuing to elevate track cycling in Wales."
Chief Executive Office at Welsh Cycling, Caroline Spanton said “We’re still on cloud nine after a hugely successful CymruVelo Track Cup. It was great to see Welsh Cycling and Newport Live put on a great showcase to celebrate our respective 50th and 20th year anniversaries. It was so pleasing to see riders from across the globe head to Wales and the Geraint Thomas National Velodrome of Wales to compete across two-days of spectacular racing. I’m extremely proud of all the efforts from both sets of staff who made the inaugural track cup extra-special.”
The event reflects the shared vision of Newport Live and Welsh Cycling in reaffirming the Geraint Thomas Velodrome of Wales as a global hub for top-tier cycling competitions and a symbol of excellence in the world of cycling. This ambitious aspiration underscores their commitment to fostering the growth and recognition of the sport on both national and international scales, further solidifying their dedication to the cycling community and the legacy of the Velodrome.
Newport Live and Welsh Cycling express their gratitude to the participants, spectators, and sponsors for making the CymruVelo Track Cup and Newport Festiva a monumental success. Plans for future editions are already underway, promising even more thrilling moments on the velodrome track.
