Peter Junek has designed the world’s first aluminum velodrome

Peter Junek’s track record in velodrome design continues to grow, with a new one being built in Tucson, Ariz. – and using aluminum. Tucson has become somewhat of a training mecca in the past few decades due to its terrific weather in the winter, great roads–including a 40-km climb, Mount Lemmon, and plenty of cycling infrastructure. It’s common for many pros and national-level riders to head there in the winter months. And there are lots of groupe rides and training camps that take place there.

It only makes sense that the cycling town should have a velodrome, although it’s surprising it’s taken so long. “We are delighted to announce Arizona’s first Olympic-style velodrome that was voted on and approved by the Pima County Board of Supervisors. The amended lease authorizes Southern Arizona Kart Club, Inc. to move forward with the design and development of the Tucson Velodrome,” the builders announced.

Finally, a track in Tucson

Since the 1970s, various groups and organizations have tried, without success, to build a velodrome in southern Arizona. In 2019, six supporters came together with the goal of building a 250-meter track suitable for international competition.

Junek, from St. Catharines, Ont., is one of just three designers in the world recognized by the UCI for creating top-quality cycling tracks that meet their strict standards. With almost 50 years of competitive cycling experience and a deep knowledge of design, Peter works with architects, cycling federations, and teams around the globe to build some of the fastest velodromes out there.

A long list of tracks

He’s built tracks all over the world–including one thought to be the fastest, Aguascalientes, Mexico. Back home, Junek designed the Fonthill Velodrome in 1990, followed by a 166m track in Hamilton, a 200m track in Quebec, and a 250m track in New Brunswick. He also built a 250m track for the 1999 Pan Am Games in Winnipeg. Recently, he was the designer of the new facility in Bromont, the Centre National de Cyclisme de Bromont. There are dozens more tracks bearing his name, from Sweden to Portugal, and Turkmenistan to Chile. This will be his 37th velodrome.

His latest creation will be somewhat unique as it will use aluminum. Most indoor tracks prefer wood–to be specific Siberian pine, and outdoor tracks generally use concrete to avoid damage from the elements. It will be built on the Musselman Honda Circuit in the area adjacent to the Pima County Fairgrounds.

The new track will be designed to handle Tucson’s hot summer temperatures, ensuring it can be used year-round. The velodrome will have 40-degree banked turns, as well as facilities like an access tunnel, lighting, washrooms, and grandstand seating.