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Clubs in Focus: Coburg Cycling Club celebrates 130 years

It was a celebration that brought generations together as Coburg Cycling Club marked an incredible 130 years of history at their clubhouse at Coburg Velodrome.

From nine-year-olds to 96-year-olds, the club’s youngest and oldest members celebrated, a fitting reflection of a club that continues to connect riders across generations.

The club's youngest and oldest members celebrated the milestone.

The event was rich in nostalgia, with memorabilia and historic photographs on display, capturing moments from across the decades.

"We are a club that has remained true to its purpose. Bringing people together through the joy, challenge, and camaraderie of riding," track co-ordinator and club historian Sam Gebert said.

A special highlight was the era of the 1950s, with cycling historian Ray Bowles showcasing images that brought the club’s past to life.

The club has produced champion riders such as Snowy Munro, one of the first two Australians to compete in the Tour de France; Darren Lapthorne, the 2007 Australian road champion; and more recently, transplant national champion Tamaryn Stevens.

Historic photos were part of the celebrations.

The celebrations also recognised another milestone, with the club’s velodrome turning 50 later this year.

Built by 1956 Olympian Dick Ploog, the track remains at the heart of racing at Coburg and continues to play a key role in the club’s weekly competitions and community activity.

The club holds Wednesday night track racing, Saturday criteriums and recreational road rides on Sundays. Coburg Cycling Club are also about to start a program aimed specifically at teaching young women how to ride bikes.

With around 70 members today, Coburg Cycling Club continues to build on its proud history while welcoming new riders into the fold.

AusCycling’s Clubs in Focus showcases the outstanding things that our clubs are doing for grassroots cycling and riding. Use our club finder to explore your local club.


Disciplines
Road, Track