A large crowd gathered in Rock Hill this morning for the Grand Opening of the Giordana Velodrome located in the new Riverwalk Development off of Highway 21. The Giordana Velodrome is a world-class 250 meter concrete velodrome with 42 degree banking. The Giordana Velodrome will be just one part of the Rock Hill Outdoor Center, a 250 acre public-private partnership between The Assured Group and The City of Rock Hill. In addition to the Velodrome, The Outdoor Center will eventually include athletic fields, a BMX Supercross course, a cyclocross track, and miles of mountain bike trails. There is already a 2 1/2 mile paved trail open to the public along the banks of the Catawba River. Future plans call for a commercial/retail area in the immediate vicinity of The Velodrome and possibly a YMCA.

The Giordana Velodrome will offer programs for cyclists of all ability levels, including introductory programs. More info on Velodrome programs, hours, and membership options can be found here.

Rock Hill Mayor Doug Echols

Dave Williams of Assured Group

The velodrome currently contains seating for around 800 spectators, plus there is a press box. A weekly racing series will begin this summer. This was my first time seeing a Velodrome, and I was surprised to see how steep a 42 degree angle is. I think it’s safe to say I will solely be a spectator at The Velodrome.

The Giordana Velodrome has garnered a great deal of local attention as well as national attention among cyclists. There are currently only around 25 Velodromes in the entire country. Before the ceremony, my husband and I had a chance to talk to a couple who is moving to Riverwalk from Tennessee specifically because of The Velodrome. Prior to the opening of the Giordana Velodrome, the closest Velodrome to them was in Atlanta. It will be very interesting to see how the Velodrome and the Riverwalk Development as a whole influence the future growth of Rock Hill. With the overall emphasis of both The Outdoor Center and that of Riverwalk being on health, wellness, and the importance of physical activity, it will undoubtedly be a positive influence. It is certain that Riverwalk will be a one of a kind development and maybe even a model for other communities.

Short Video of 2 riders on the track

I look forward to following their progress!

Currently there are two builders building in Riverwalk, Saussy Burbank and Evans-Coghill. Saussy Burbank currently has homes under construction and Evans-Coghill plans on breaking ground in the next few weeks.