Envision a red shale track. That was the original surface of the Herne Hill Velodrome. Now, imagine the roar of the crowd, the glint of sunlight on spokes, and the sheer thrill of speed. This is the Herne Hill Velodrome.
Originally known as the London County Grounds, this velodrome is one of the oldest cycling tracks in the world. It was built in 1891. The Herne Hill Velodrome has a rich history. It has witnessed countless triumphs and near-closures.
George Hillier, an amateur racer, founded the Herne Hill Velodrome. Before its creation, the leading venue had been at Crystal Palace. Hillier wanted a better track so he found land off Burbage Road. He leased it from Dulwich College Trustees.
W and J Peacock built the new track. They were finished in March 1891. The first race was held on April 16, 1891. Only members of the Herne Hill club could participate.
The original track had 5 ft bankings. The surface was red shale. It needed constant rolling. In 1893, wooden slats replaced it. These slats led to fast racing but frequent crashes after rain. Concrete was laid in 1896.
Many records were broken at the Herne Hill Velodrome. The Cuca Cup 24-hour races were very popular. From 1903, the velodrome hosted the Good Friday meeting. World champions performed here. During the 1920s and 1930s, these meetings attracted 10,000 people.
Frank Southall broke records at the Herne Hill Velodrome in the late 1920s and early 1930s. In 1936, Ernie Mills and Bill Paul set a world best for tandems. They covered 30 miles 793 yards unpaced in one hour.
The Herne Hill Velodrome played a vital role during the 1948 Summer Olympics. It hosted the track cycling events. The track was repaired. Permanent stands were built. Approach roads and turnstiles were improved. A temporary stand was built for journalists. The cycling press was disappointed by the lack of an opening ceremony.
During World War I, the Herne Hill Velodrome served as home to Crystal Palace F.C.. The Admiralty commandeered their stadium. They played here from 1914 to 1918. Crowds averaged 3,000 to 4,000.
The FA Amateur Cup final was held at Herne Hill in 1911. Bromley played Bishop Auckland. London Irish and London Welsh also used the velodrome as their home ground.
In February 2013, work began to upgrade the Herne Hill Velodrome. This was part of the Southwark Olympic Legacy Project. A new junior 250m track was built. A hardstanding area was created. Floodlights were installed.
A grant from British Cycling allowed the track to be resurfaced. In 2017, a new pavilion was completed. Mike Taylor of Hopkins Architects designed it.
The Herne Hill Velodrome has seen famous cyclists. Bradley Wiggins began his career here. Laura Kenny honed her skills here. Tom Simpson also raced here.
Despite facing challenges, the Herne Hill Velodrome remains a vibrant hub for cycling. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of this sport. The Herne Hill Velodrome stands as a symbol of British cycling history. It inspires future generations of cyclists. Its legacy continues to grow.