Here at the Joe Ciavola Velodrome you will soon discover a world where speed and dedication meet. The Joe Ciavola Velodrome is also known as the DISC Velodrome. It stands as Victoria’s premier indoor cycling venue. This isn’t just any cycling track. It’s a place where dreams are chased and records are broken.
The Joe Ciavola Velodrome opened its doors in 2004. It was built for the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games. The Velodrome served as a training haven for athletes. Today it continues to nurture talent as the training location for The VIS track team.
Many prestigious events have graced this track. The Melbourne Cup on Wheels is a favourite. The Austral is also a very popular event. The Joe Ciavola Velodrome’s 250-meter timber track is known for speed. Its 42-degree banking adds an extra thrill. Many Australian and World records have been set here.
The Joe Ciavola Velodrome is named in honor of Joe Ciavola. Joe was a prominent figure in Victorian cycling. As an amateur he won races. These included the Melbourne Cup on Wheels. He also won the Sixes. His vision and determination led to this Velodrome’s creation. He wanted to create a space for cyclists to excel. In 1997 Joe Ciavola was elected President of Victoria Cycling.
The Joe Ciavola Velodrome is part of the Darebin International Sports Centre DISC. DISC includes the State Lawn Bowls Centre and State Football Centre. The Joe Ciavola Velodrome has grandstand seating for 500 people. Additional seating can boost the capacity to 1,000.
The Joe Ciavola Velodrome was built on the site of the former Northcote Velodrome. The track itself is a marvel. It was constructed with 400 individual frames of wood. Schurmann Architects from Germany designed it. The Schurmann family has designed more than 125 velodromes since 1925.
Darebin City Council manages the Joe Ciavola Velodrome. The Velodrome is available for casual use outside of booked times. Keep an eye on the schedule for various cycling clubs. Blackburn Club meets here Mondays. DISC Masters and Brunswick Tuesday Night Racing also use the track. Carnegie-Caulfield Club meets Wednesdays. There are sessions for everyone. These range from Diamond Ride to Women’s Track Training.
The Joe Ciavola Velodrome is more than a cycling track. It’s a community hub. It is a place of history and athletic achievement. As you leave today remember the legacy of Joe Ciavola. His passion shaped this incredible venue.