Track's expected lifespan near end

Since its opening in 1990, the NSC Velodrome has hosted national events and Olympic trials. Local races are held Thursday nights from May through mid-September, and each summer the National Sports Center offers beginner and advanced track-bike racing classes.

Last update: August 28, 2007 - 4:42 PM

Originally constructed as part of an effort by then-Governor Rudy Perpich to build an Olympic-caliber training center in the Twin Cities, the velodrome cost about $3.5 million and is one of the few board tracks built in the United States since the 1940s.

In the early 20th century, velodrome tracks were built in many major U.S. cities. Urban crowds would gather to bet on riders, who were famous athletes of their day. But interest in the sport plummeted, and for decades track-bike racing was obscure and nearly forgotten. Today, fewer than 25 velodromes exist in the United States.

The NSC Velodrome, which is open to the elements, was built to last about 20 years, said NSC cycling coordinator Bob Williams, who expects it to remain operational for only about another five years. Signs of wear are visible on the planks and supporting trusses. Despite volunteer upkeep, "we need a new indoor track to keep the sport alive in this state," he said.

STEPHEN REGENOLD

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