“A velodrome is more than a training facility; it’s a place to meet other avid cyclists.” The idea for the centre was born from a group of can-do mountain bikers in the 1990s after Bromont hosted the first-ever world championships in Quebec. “This led to the creation of the centre as a top training venue for sports federations,” says Nicolas Legault, General Manager of Bromont’s National Cycling Centre, the CNCB.  “Then came the cyclist’s hostel, BMX track, summer camps, and school programs.”

The centre is now a hub for up-and-coming talent in Quebec, with renowned cyclists and coaches developing within its walls. “Randy Ferguson is now at the Olympics, and Sylvain Richard is a timer for Red Bull Crashed Ice; they both started out in Bromont,” Legault points out.

The cycling community: a vector of success

The centre’s 20 years of development culminated in 2023 with the opening of the first indoor cycling building, complete with a velodrome, pumptrack, and freestyle park.

This $20 million project is the biggest investment in Quebec cycling since the 1976 Olympic Games, with $11 million coming from private donations.

Community support has been phenomenal. “It takes 12 weeks to lay a wood track, but because of the war in Ukraine, we only got the wood six weeks before the scheduled opening. Local volunteers worked around the clock, fastening 500,000 screws in record time,” recalls Nicolas. “That level of community involvement was something to see.”

The hard work has paid off: The velodrome welcomed 150,000 visitors in its first year, and the multisports area has been a massive success. Seven sports courts are open to all (pickleball is especially popular). “I love the age diversity – you see kids as young as two on the pumptrack and seniors in their 80s on the track.”

Track cycling on your bucket list?

Introductory sessions are offered all year round, with bike, helmet, and coach included. It’s safe and a ton of fun.