The Grassroots Trust Velodrome is gearing up for another action-packed term of Plus Mortgage Trust Friday Night Racing and our Junior Programme, with a few exciting changes designed to help riders build confidence, skills, and racing experience as we head toward an even bigger 2026 season.
There is nothing better than seeing riders, parents, volunteers and supporters come together on a Friday night to race and cheer each other on. Last term was full of great moments, including a nail-biting Australian Pursuit that had the whole Velodrome cheering! Term 4 promises even more great racing and development opportunities under the guidance of coaches Dan Gardner and Sophie de Vries.
What’s new this term
C-grade timed event focus
C Grade and Junior Coached 1 riders will now have a stronger focus on timed events such as team sprints and pursuits. This shift is all about helping riders develop technique, confidence, and performance consistency before moving into bunch racing, providing a smooth and rewarding progression through the grades.
We would love to see more Battle of the Schools riders returning to keep the fun and learning going on the boards!
Introducing the U23-grade
This term marks the launch of a brand-new U23 grade for Friday Night Racing.
The addition offers slightly older riders a competitive space to sharpen their bunch racing skills outside of major competitions. It also gives younger riders a chance to learn from and connect with experienced cyclists in a supportive environment.
Junior Programme riders may be invited to guest in this grade with coach approval, and select older riders may also join if they can add value to the racing bunch.
Junior Grand Prix: Friday 12 December
Term 4 will wrap up with something special, the first-ever Junior Grand Prix, taking place on Friday 12 December. This stand-alone event will celebrate the overall 2025 Friday Night Racing series winners, while giving junior riders their moment to shine after a week of elite-level racing at the Velodrome.
It is the perfect opportunity for our up-and-coming riders to showcase what they have learned and to claim the first names on the brand-new Junior GP trophies.
Key Dates and Details
Junior Coached Sessions
Term 4: 9 weeks, starting the week of 6 October and finishing the week of 1 December
For riders aged 10–18 years
Junior Coached 1 – On Track (Beginner / Entry Level)
Mondays 5:00–6:00pm
Learn the basics and develop towards accreditation and Coached 2.Junior Coached 2 – Track Craft (Intermediate / Skill-Building)
Thursdays 4:00–5:00pm
Develop the skills and fitness to ride faster, smoother, and smarter.Pro Coached 3 – Junior Pro (Advanced / Race-Focused)
Thursdays 5:00–6:00pm
Turn group training into real racing results.
For all info and updates and to book your place, visit here.
Photos by Ethan Verner Photography.