Bang those boards!
Good Friday racing is back for 2019. It is one of the most exciting and accessible track events in the calendar. Here's why we can't wait for April 19th.
The History
Track racing in London has been taking place on Good Friday for over one hundred years, and records pre-date the first Tour de France in 1903.
"I have images dating back to the sixties of Condor-supported riders doing battle on Good Friday. It is has always been an day that brings out the best from riders", explained Grant Young, Chairman. "It is a great introduction for anyone who wants to get up close to track cycling, in an incredible former Olympic venue."
1. Open Field Racing
The format of the racing on the day is to offer all riders a level playing field. There are no contracts and no reserved places, regardless of who the rider is. As a result, there is a handsome prize list that riders will want to win, including the famous track cycling stars. The Condor Good Friday event is the UK's richest one day track event.
2. Condor Test Track
Test the latest technology from Condor on the Lee Valley road track. There will be a range of Leggero race bikes available to demo for free from 2.30pm to 4pm.
Good Friday ticket holders will be able to access the test track for free and ride our race proven handmade carbon bikes for as long as they like during the test session
Condor staff will be on hand to set you up and talk you through their race-winning machines. Follow signs to the outdoor road track to participate.
What to bring:
- Your helmet
- Cycling shoes and pedals
- Cycling kit, if you feel more comfortable in cycle apparel
3. Monty Young Golden Wheel
For 2019, we have renamed the Golden Wheel race and created a new trophy in honour of our late founder, Monty Young. Throughout Condor's seventy year history, Monty championed supporting British racing and could often be found track centre at six-day events and with riders on Good Friday.
The Monty Young Golden Wheel is a 20k scratch race with a lucrative cash prize list and Breitling watch for the winner. Our hope is that the trophy will continue for years to come, celebrating Monty's involvement in the sport.
"My grandfather's wheel building was famous and I meet people regularly who remember his support at races and track meetings. The race is the perfect way to remember him", explained Condor's Sebastian Young.
Former winners of the Golden Wheel race include Condor Mackeson rider, Dave Bonner, who took the title in 1963, and friends of the brand, Olympian, Mick Bennett (1972), and cycling champion, Maurice Burton (1975).
4. Cheap Tickets
A family ticket is just £29 and individual adult tickets start at £11. The tickets allow visitors to re-enter the velodrome through the day and enjoy the surrounding Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. The event opens at 1pm and runs until 8pm.
Advanced tickets are available until Wednesday 16th and tickets are available on the day from the Box Office.
5. Family Day Out
To complement the exciting racing, the Lee Valley VeloPark will host a range of activities for all ages, including free balance bike sessions led by Lee Valley coaches, and free mini pump track taster sessions for older kids to learn more about MTB and BMX. There is also Rollapaluza racing for all, balloon artists and food stands.