The world’s best track cyclists are set to converge on Cambridge next month for a prestigious track cycling tournament.
The Tissot Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Track Cycling World Cup comes to the Avantidrome from 6 - 8 December for the fourth round of the 2019/2020 tournament.
Each series of the international tournament is divided into several rounds with New Zealand, Belarus, Scotland, China and Australia each hosting a leg.
Cycling New Zealand is again hosting next month’s event, which is likely to attract up to 550 competitors, staff, officials and supporters from over 40 countries.
CEO Jacques Landry said Cambridge is the ultimate destination because of its world-class Avantidrome, centered around a purpose-built 250m wooden cycling velodrome.
“It’s a rare occurrence for Cambridge to host the event twice in one year, so make the most of the opportunity.”
Landry encourages people to snap up tickets now to the not-to-be-missed event.
“Track cycling is one of the best spectator sports because you can get so close to the action,” he said.
“The atmosphere within the velodrome is electric and it’s a major plus for Vantage Elite riders to be competing in a familiar environment with a home crowd advantage.”
The event was welcomed to Cambridge in 2015 and January 2019 by sell-out crowds and high praise from UCI and international teams.
The Tissot UCI Track Cycling World Cup receives support from the Waipā District Promotion Fund.
Waipa District Council mayor Jim Mylchreest said the event was a fantastic opportunity to host competitors from around 40 different countries and showcase Waipā and New Zealand.
He invites visitors to make the most of picturesque Cambridge, which was recently named Most Beautiful Large Town in the Keep New Zealand Beautiful annual awards.
“Waipā offers a range of accommodation that provides easy access to the event and the township, as well as great coffee, eateries and shopping,” he said.
“Stay a few days and enjoy all that the district has to offer.”
He also urges people to cycle or walk to the event to enjoy the Waipā countryside, off-road cycle trails and recreational cycle paths.
Tickets are on sale now on Ticketek for the three-day event that will see track stars and rising talent race for medals, crucial Olympic qualifying points and pride. Visit whatsonwaipa.co.nz to learn more about the event.