Radrennbahn Andreasried

1885. A dusty track of packed sand emerged in Erfurt’s northern reaches. This was the ancestor of the magnificent Radrennbahn Andreasried we stand before today. The Radrennbahn Andreasried wasn’t always the sleek, concrete marvel you see now. It began humbly, hosting daring races on high-wheel bicycles. Imagine the scene: gentlemen in their finest sporting attire, perched precariously atop enormous wheels, churning up the sandy track in a display of speed and balance. The track evolved. In 1899, it was reborn as a cement speedway, its curves banked a thrilling four meters high. This allowed for the faster, more agile “safety bicycles,” or “Niederrad,” to take center stage. The Radrennbahn Andreasried became a hub for cycling enthusiasts, hosting not only track races but also serving as the finish line for prestigious road races like the Thüringen-Rundfahrt. The track has seen its share of triumphs and tragedies. In the 1950s, two fatal accidents cast a shadow over the vibrant venue. Schrittmacher Walter Heßlich, great-grandfather of Olympic champion Lutz Heßlich, died after a training accident in 1951. Then, in 1952, multiple Steher world champion Erich Metze tragically lost his life following a crash on the track. The Radrennbahn Andreasried also played a vital role in the development of East German cycling. After a significant reconstruction between 1972 and 1974, the track was shortened to the then-international standard of 333.33 meters. This allowed it to host competitions in Olympic disciplines. It transformed from a venue primarily known for cycling festivals into a training ground for elite athletes like multiple world champion Detlef Macha. After a period of decline and a superficial renovation around the millennium, the Radrennbahn Andreasried underwent another transformation. Between 2006 and 2008, it was completely rebuilt to the modern international standard of 250 meters. The new Radrennbahn Andreasried boasts a state-of-the-art concrete surface with a synthetic resin coating. A translucent roof shelters both the track and the 3,000-seat grandstand. This impressive structure, made primarily of steel tubes and covered with a plastic-coated polyester fabric, ensures races can continue even in inclement weather. The Radrennbahn Andreasried continues to be a beloved venue. It hosts numerous events, including the traditional “Golden Wheel of Erfurt” race, a staple since the 1920s. It is also a training ground for Olympic hopefuls, students of the Erfurt Sports Gymnasium, and members of the RSC Turbine Erfurt. This track has borne witness to over a century of cycling history. From its humble beginnings as a sand track to its current status as a world-class facility, the Radrennbahn Andreasried stands as a testament to the enduring passion for cycling in Erfurt. It is more than just a velodrome; it’s a living monument to the sport.