The venerable Hector Norris track in Southern Johannesburg is all set for a new lease of life after the injection of a R663 350 grant from Cycling South Africa.
"It’s wonderful news and we have already begun the face lift operations," enthused Grenville Scullard, the chairman of the Central Gauteng Cycling Union (CGCU) whose club, the Lifestyle Performance Cycling Club, runs the facility. "The money will be used for two parallel concepts: general and basic maintenance of the facility, and the creation of a new home for all cycling disciplines," he explained.
In parallel with the upgrading of the existing facilities, Scullard also plans to build a BMX track. "This is in keeping with our need to make Hector Norris a sustainable facility, which means that the more people through the gate, the better for us all," he continued. It also explains why a 2.5 km MTB track is part of the concept, as is a small road safety course manned by the Metro Police.
"The upgrading of the existing club-house is already underway; we have 23 development bikes at Hector Norris and we need a secure storage area for them," Scullard continued. To cater for all cycling disciplines, Scullard has also begun to acquire cycling-specific gym equipment, "and there will also be a centre for physiotherapy, which is very important for all cycling disciplines," he added.
Together with a comprehensive outreach to local schools and a closely monitored development programme, it’s clear that the cash injection couldn’t have at a better time for the "grand old lady" of Gauteng cycling.
