Tuesday, April 8, 2008

The Boards of Delhi and London.






I’ve just spent the last few days in London, Ontario. I had hoped to get out for a couple of rides with some friends to see some of Ontario that I am not too familiar with but as it turned out I couldn’t meet up with them and rode on my own. The country around London is pretty flat and as I rode the straight roads across the windswept farmland I was reminded of the roads in northern France and Belgium. The cobbles are missing but there are plenty of rough gravel roads that at this time of year, just after the snow has gone, are almost as much of a challenge as the pave of Europe.


Not Belgian cobbles but almost as tough to ride.

Maybe it is because of the similarity with their homeland that Belgian immigrants settled into this area. Delhi (pronounced Del-high) is the centre of the Belgian community and was at one time a hub of bike racing in Ontario. The first bike race that I saw after arriving in Canada in 1964 was in Delhi. The main street was closed down for the race and the large crowd was obviously knowledgeable. Compared with the races I had ridden in England this was so much more exciting. Bike race spectators in England were almost exclusively connected in some way with the riders. Here they were all local residents, mostly farmers and their families, often shouting encouragement to the riders in Flemish.

Over the next few years I made several two hour drives to Delhi from my home in Toronto to not only race in their local criteriums and road races there but also to attend their winter socials at the Belgium Hall where roller racing would be the main feature.

In 1972 the bike racing fans of Delhi built a velodrome in the local hockey stadium. Of course, even in Delhi, hockey is the number one sport in Canada but during the summer the arena wasn’t being used too much. Locally they had an expert at building velodromes: An ex-six day racer himself Albert Coulier had previously built fourteen velodromes in Canada and the US during the hey day of six day racing in the forties and fifties.

The velodrome in Delhi that Coulier built was fantastic. Constrained by the available space of a hockey rink it was short and steep--118 metres with bankings at 55 degrees-- but it hosted some of the most exciting bike racing one could see anywhere. Renowned British cycling journalist Jock Wadley came to Delhi to see a six day event and wrote a glowing account of it in his book “Old Roads and New”. Jock had seen racing all over the World from World Championships to Six Days at the Paris Vel d’Hiv to nineteen Tours de France. Jock said that the racing at Delhi was “the most exciting, most adventurous, most spectacular cycling scene I have encountered in more than 40 years association with the sport”.

Delhi could not, of course, attract the professional riders but it did attract most of the better amateurs from Canada and the States. The stars of Delhi were Canadian Jocelyn Lovell, ex Brit. Chris Hooker, American Roger Young and local riders such as Pete Penman, who was an expert on the steep boards of Delhi.



Sadly, the Delhi Velodrome lasted only a few years. The new generation of Delhi residents were not as keen on bike racing as their parents and other summer uses were found for the hockey arena. The Delhi Velodrome was dead but by no means forgotten.

Thirty years later in 2005 a similar hockey arena became available in London. The local hockey team had moved to a new facility downtown and their old arena was standing empty. Local bike racing enthusiast Rob Good saw an opportunity, approached the owner and a deal was struck. Albert Coulier, now in his eighties, agreed to come out of retirement and design the track With the aid of Albert’s two sons and their company, Apollo Construction, the Forest City Velodrome was born.

A training group negociate the 50 degree bankings

The track is a work of art, a beautiful wooden bowl; Rob Good’s Field of Dreams. At 138 metres around it is a bit larger than the old Delhi track and perhaps a little easier to ride. The curves are banked at 50 degrees and the straights at 17 degrees. It is certainly quite intimidating and so far I haven’t summoned up enough guts to get on it; however, I am put to shame by the crowd that I have seen racing and training on it. There are riders of all ages from ten year olds to one fellow in his eighties looping around at speed. What a joy it is to see those little ten year olds flying around the top of the high banking without a fear in the World.

Rob Good, his wife and a large crew of volunteers have transformed a more or less derelict arena into a wonderful sports facility. When they took the building over there were numerous burst pipes due to a previous tenant being unwilling to heat it over the winter. The place was dirty and in need of paint. The volunteers have now fixed most of the problems and it is a great place to spend some time be it racing, training or just watching. There are teaching and training sessions everyday where complete novices are taught the basics and soon become confident on those intimidating bankings. There are plenty of bikes available to borrow.

Unfortunately even for the most exciting racing sessions spectators are sparse. Maybe that is because Canadians are too much into hockey and have no time for anything else. Maybe it is a lack of advertising. Whatever the reason, it seems a shame that people are missing out on a good evening’s entertainment. One group that never misses a race meet is the “Delhi Ladies”. A group of elder ladies from Delhi that remember the old Delhi track and know just how exciting the racing can be.

The others that seem to be staying away are the road racers. With Canada’s long winters one would think that the opportunity to train indoors would attract a good crowd. What better place to get in a few winter miles and sharpen up your bike handling skills than at the velodrome.

However even without the crowds of spectators and the road racers the Forest City Velodrome seems to be flourishing. There is a very enthusiastic youth group and a large group of regulars that put on exciting racing. If you get a chance pay them a visit I’m sure you will be equally impressed as I am.

For information on the Forest City Velodrome go to: www.forestcityvelodrome.ca

20 comments:

dbrk said...

Your entries are too infrequent, Mike! This was a wonderful story! Thanks a million for taking the time.

dbrk

Anonymous said...

I heard a special bike, that you lost, made it's way back into your hands. Is there a story?

Anonymous said...

Mike: I'd heard through the grapevine (a pair of younger cyclists actually, whom I'd stopped to compliment on their riding classic frames in immaculate condition) that you'd closed shop.

It's a sad eventuality, this aging business, that all must pass. Somehow though, your excellent writing skills seem to have stopped the clock!

I was very lucky in obtaining some used but very lively 531 frames, as well as components, from Mike over the years. My last one, albeit a tad on the stiff side (A Raleigh Gran Course, from the seventies I believe) still serves as my workhorse.

Mike has never seen a lot of profitable business from me over the years, I'm a man of modest means, so I hope a heartfelt "thank you" helps.

Absolute best regards:
Steve Saines
ssaines@primus.ca

Anonymous said...

Mike:
Been catching-up on your wonderful chronicles. It's an odd thing, you're a few years up on me (albeit age and health have *almost* gotten past me, it's a long story, but briefly...my muscles are in phenomenal shape, the joints not...years of being hyperthyroid, albeit the rheumatic aspect is now being addressed...I call it a 'reprieve') so I was delighted to read this...something perhaps I'd realized before you had:
[qt]In recent years cycling out of Toronto has become pretty miserable with traffic. We now almost always drive out to the outskirts and ride from there. The countryside is still remarkably close and after half an hour in the car we are in quiet country roads.[/qt]
I'd mentioned this to the Randonneurs (sp?) a decade or so back, only to be treated as a heretic! Rofl...

I've spent decades finding the 'safe' routes in and out of Toronto by GO train. Unfortunately, until the Georgetown route is re-established, (and Rush Hour scheduling further complicates this score) there are very few options, but there is one glaring one:

Rouge Hill Station.

Unless one is heading further East from Oshawa (and even Oshawa is now a tribulation to transit until clear of Bowmanville Creek on the East, where eastbound county gravel roads become available at a reasonable latitude to the lake...avoid Hwy 2, it is dangerous!) then Rouge Hill is by far the best GO gateway to the very roads that Mike mentions leading up to Goodwood.

Here's how:

Exit at Rouge Hill Station. Go east on Lawrence to Rouge Hill Park. Cross the foot-bridge into Pickering. Continue east along the path and the two roads available where the path ends (either will do) to arrive at Petticoat Creek Park. Take the northerly path just inside the gate at the park, and it will lead you to the foot of White's Road...admittedly, no country lane anymore, but follow it north for a few kilometers north of Hwy #2, turn right at the *second* gravel road you intersect (first one is a dead-end stub going east) which is immediately south of the Steeles extension. At this point, you are offered a relaxed route to nirvana, almost all gravel until you reach Columbus Rd, still one of the few paved roads eastbound that reaches past Oshawa with a degree of civility for cyclists. Many of the parallel sideroads are also fun to cycle in that district, many with hard-packed clay content gravel roads, on which you can make good time *and* have the all-important conversation with the Gods. If it isn't a joy, then what is it worth?

Beware that GO trains go to a number of interesting jump-off points, but scheduling disallows bikes due to rush-hour service. In the west end, there are very few 'safe' routes out, but some of them offer safe routes in. (That may sound oxymoronic, but again, it is due to scheduling of service)

Whatever, the outstanding portal remains Rouge Hill Station. I usually head well north of Hwy #7, go east, and then return from Oshawa GO station.

As GO re-establish some of their earlier destinations, more options will become available.

I can't tell you the joy I've had reading your chronicles, Mike.

My thighs are bulging from the excitement of the pictures of Spanish roads alone!

As long as I can still do the miles, then damn the aging!

Steve Saines
ssaines@primus.ca

OAP said...

Wonderful blog Mr. Barry. I wish there were more entries!

Joy the Baker. said...

Invest in your YouTube channel's success with our premier service for purchasing subscribers, a legitimately approved method to amplify your audience base rapidly. Subscribers form the backbone of your channel's community, and enhancing this metric can significantly increase your content's visibility and credibility. Our service provides genuine subscribers, helping to ensure higher engagement rates and extended watch times on your videos. This approach is a powerful catalyst in your YouTube growth strategy, contributing to improved recommendation algorithm performance and attracting organic traffic. Expand your online presence and authority with subscribers who are interested and engaged – the essential fuel for your channel's long-term growth and influence.
https://www.buyyoutubesubscribers.in/

Ramblings said...

In Delhi, the best LASIK surgery centers stand out for their unparalleled expertise, advanced laser technology, and patient-centric approach. These prestigious clinics are home to some of the most distinguished surgeons in the field, who are dedicated to providing exceptional care and achieving optimal visual outcomes. Each patient benefits from a comprehensive evaluation, ensuring a fully customized treatment plan. The use of state-of-the-art laser equipment guarantees precision and enhances safety, leading to exceedingly positive results. Recovery time is minimal, with many patients reporting a remarkable improvement in vision almost immediately after the procedure. Furthermore, the cost-efficiency of undergoing LASIK in Delhi, without sacrificing quality or care, makes it an exemplary choice for anyone looking to correct their vision. It's this combination of clinical excellence, cutting-edge technology, and personalized care that positions Delhi's LASIK surgery centers as the best in not just the city, but arguably the region.
https://www.visualaidscentre.com/lasik-eye-surgery/

Kerrie Timpson said...

Purchasing YouTube subscribers at a low cost presents an appealing shortcut for content creators aiming to quickly enhance their channel's allure. It's a strategy that plays on the fundamental human psychology of social proof, where a higher subscriber count may suggest a channel’s popularity and reliability, encouraging more organic viewers to subscribe. However, this cost-effective tactic comes with its own set of risks, including the potential of attracting inactive or bot accounts, which do not contribute to genuine engagement or viewership. While tempting for those eager to see immediate growth, creators should proceed with caution, weighing the benefits of a short-term boost against the importance of building a long-lasting and authentically engaged community. Despite its attractiveness, the success of a YouTube channel ultimately hinges on the consistent delivery of compelling content that meets the interests and needs of its audience.
https://sites.google.com/view/buyytsubscribers/

Aboulay Thomas said...

Buy Real YouTube Views offers a service tailored to content creators who are seeking to elevate their presence on the YouTube platform. This approach focuses on procuring genuine views from real, active users, ensuring that the integrity of the content creator's channel remains intact. By increasing a video's view count authentically, it gains higher likelihood to appear in YouTube's recommended videos, thus boosting its visibility organically. This service provides a strategic advantage, especially for those targeting specific markets like India, by drawing in an engaged audience that could translate into increased subscriber numbers. It's an initial step towards enhancing a video's attractiveness, designed to complement the creator's efforts in producing quality content and fostering audience interaction. With Buy Real YouTube Views, creators can kickstart their pathway to success on YouTube, navigating the competitive landscape with a stronger, more visible online presence.
https://www.buyyoutubeviewsindia.in/

Our travel destiny said...

In India, the cheapest web hosting services have become a linchpin for enabling a vast range of digital endeavors at minimal cost. These services stand out by providing essential features such as reliable uptime, sufficient bandwidth, and generous storage, all on a budget. Tailored specifically for the Indian market, they ensure optimal site performance and accessibility for local audiences. The competitive market landscape evens out the playing field, ensuring that even the most affordable plans do not compromise on quality or customer support. This has opened doors for countless entrepreneurs, small businesses, and creatives to establish an online presence without the burden of significant financial investment.An error occurred during generation. Please try again or contact support if it continues.
https://onohosting.com/

Our travel destiny said...

Buying YouTube subscribers cheap can seem like a tempting shortcut for those looking to quickly increase their channel's perceived popularity. It's a controversial strategy, involving the purchase of subscribers from various online services that promise a certain number of followers for a fee. While this might boost subscriber numbers at a glance, it rarely translates into genuine engagement or viewership. Most of these purchased subscribers are inactive accounts or bots, contributing nothing to actual interaction or watch time. This approach can also risk violating YouTube's terms of service, potentially leading to penalties including the removal of the purchased subscribers or even suspension of the channel. Thus, while initially attractive for its low cost and promise of growth, buying YouTube subscribers cheaply is fraught with risks and lacks the value of organic growth.
https://buyyoutubesubscribersindia.weebly.com/

Adventurous Kate said...

Buying 5-star Google reviews is a controversial practice where businesses pay for fabricated positive feedback to artificially boost their online image. This method seeks to inflate a company's Google rating, with the aim of attracting more customers by presenting a misleadingly favorable view of the business. Such actions not only raise ethical questions but also risk violating Google's strict rules against review manipulation. While the allure of quick improvement in ratings is tempting, the potential consequences include punitive actions from Google, such as removal of the fraudulent reviews and damage to the company's online reputation. True growth and customer trust are best built through authentic experiences and genuine customer satisfaction, underscoring the importance of focusing on quality service rather than shortcuts.
https://www.seoexpertindelhi.in/buy-google-reviews/

Gourmet Gossip said...

Explore the opportunity to become a part of Singapore's esteemed healthcare landscape, distinguished by its commitment to innovation and exceptional patient care. We are seeking dedicated Indian nurses ready to elevate their careers within a multicultural, dynamic environment. Successful candidates will benefit from competitive salaries, comprehensive professional development, and the chance to specialize in various medical fields. Our supportive workplace celebrates diversity, ensuring a rich, fulfilling professional experience. Join us and contribute to a healthcare system internationally recognized for its excellence, while advancing your career in a city known for its vibrant culture and high quality of life.
https://dynamichealthstaff.com/nursing-jobs-in-singapore-for-indian-nurses

Flying Solo said...

Within the heart of Mumbai thrives an exceptional Breast Cancer Doctor whose expertise and compassion redefine cancer care. This individual's approach melds the latest scientific advancements with a deeply personalized treatment ethos, ensuring that each patient benefits from the most effective therapies and surgical techniques available today. Beyond their clinical expertise, this doctor is celebrated for their unwavering commitment to patient well-being, providing a sanctuary of support for those navigating the challenges of breast cancer. They engage in groundbreaking research, continuously pushing the boundaries of oncology to improve patient outcomes. Their advocacy for early detection and education on preventative measures stands as a testament to their holistic vision of healthcare. With each life touched, this doctor not only combats cancer but also instills hope and resilience in the heart of the community. Their dedication not only advances the field of breast cancer treatment but also elevates the standard of care in Mumbai's dynamic medical landscape.
https://drnitanair.com/

Dr shaan said...

Breast Cancer Doctors in Gurgaon are at the forefront of oncological care, providing patients with a beacon of hope in their battle against breast cancer. These esteemed professionals combine medical expertise with the latest technological advancements to offer tailored treatment plans, ensuring each patient receives the most effective and compassionate care possible. Their approach goes beyond treating the disease itself, focusing also on the emotional and psychological wellbeing of their patients, offering a holistic path to recovery. With access to pioneering clinical trials and innovative therapies, they are equipped to handle the most challenging cases with precision and empathy. Their dedication to patient empowerment through education and supportive care sets them apart, making them trusted allies in the fight against breast cancer. In the sophisticated healthcare ecosystem of Gurgaon, these doctors stand as pillars of excellence, leading the charge in transforming cancer care with every life they touch.
https://www.breastoncosurgery.com/

Traveltalesfromindia said...

Dr. Shona Nag is a foremost expert in breast cancer treatment, with over 20 years of experience in oncology. She has led numerous groundbreaking clinical trials, pioneering innovative therapies that have significantly improved patient survival rates. Dr. Nag's extensive research has been published in leading medical journals, showcasing her expertise and impact on the field. Holding a prestigious position at a top hospital, she is also a dedicated mentor to emerging oncologists. Dr. Nag advocates passionately for patient education and holistic care, ensuring comprehensive support for those affected by breast cancer. Her unwavering commitment to advancing treatment has earned her widespread recognition and respect globally.
https://www.drshonanagbreastcancer.in/contact-best-medical-oncologist-near-me-cancer-center-in-pune/

Our travel destiny said...

Hair thinning treatment in Australia boasts a variety of advanced solutions designed to combat and manage hair loss. Options include clinically proven medications like Minoxidil and Finasteride, which stimulate hair growth and reduce shedding. Additionally, low-level laser therapy (LLLT) devices, such as laser combs and caps, offer non-invasive alternatives to invigorate hair follicles. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy has gained popularity for its ability to enhance follicular health and promote regrowth through concentrated growth factors. Furthermore, natural treatments utilizing biotin, caffeine, and essential oils provide supportive care to improve scalp health and strengthen existing hair.
https://generichealth.com.au/minoxidil-3/

Vegan Richa said...

Our company is driven by a passion for technology and innovation, making us a leading mobile app development company in Delhi. We specialize in transforming complex ideas into sleek, intuitive apps that provide exceptional user experiences. Our team of expert developers and designers collaborates closely with clients to deliver customized solutions, ensuring each app meets specific business objectives. We leverage the latest technologies and development practices to create high-performance apps for iOS and Android platforms. Our services include strategic planning, UI/UX design, development, testing, and maintenance. By maintaining a focus on quality and timely delivery, we help businesses achieve their digital goals with efficiency and style. Partner with us to bring your visionary app concepts to life.
https://olycoder.com/

Anonymous said...

I’m sure this finds Mr Good and his Velodrome a bit late, but I’m happy to see this snapshot in time. I raced as a junior with Rob Good and a few other locals at the original Delhi track. WOW was that exciting!! I’ll never forget the few years I rode there, nor will my family. 50 years on, I’m still riding and following the sport. Congratulations Robbie on succeeding in building an indoor track.
Best… Bob Read (formerly of Niagara Falls)

Palate Paradise said...

A peer-to-peer (P2P) lending platform in India acts as a digital marketplace that connects individual borrowers with lenders, bypassing traditional banks and financial institutions. This model allows borrowers to obtain loans for various purposes, including personal needs, education, or business investments, often at competitive interest rates. Lenders can select loans that match their risk tolerance, enabling them to earn attractive returns on their investments. Utilizing advanced algorithms, these platforms assess borrowers' creditworthiness quickly and with minimal paperwork. This efficiency improves accessibility and speeds up the loan approval process. Furthermore, P2P lending platforms promote financial inclusion, particularly for those who may struggle to secure loans from conventional sources. As awareness of these platforms grows, they play a crucial role in enhancing the overall lending landscape in India. With transparency and direct connections, both borrowers and lenders benefit from this innovative approach to finance.
https://www.perannum.money/