P1.5-billion velodrome for Filipino cyclists in the works

An arena where Filipino track cyclists can train and compete is already long overdue, and Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino will make sure that it will be worth the wait once the plan to build a velodrome for the sport becomes a reality.

Tolentino is also the PhilCycling president, and he recently discussed with International Cycling Union (UCI) president David Lappartient the construction of a modern velodrome either in Tagaytay City or New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac.

The project is being targeted to be finished in 2021 at the latest, and its budget is a staggering P1.5 billion.

The UCI will provide the design of the velodrome so that it will surely be up to world-class standards.

Track cycling in the Olympics features five events—team sprint, keirin, sprint, team pursuit and omnium—which offer a combined 10 gold medals both for men and women.

The 53-year-old Amoranto Velodrome inside the Amoranto Sports Complex in Quezon City is the only venue in the country where track cyclists can hone their racing skills.