The Rise and Legacy of the Trexlertown Velodrome: A Cycling Revolution

Half a century ago, a small Pennsylvania town named Trexlertown became the unlikely epicenter of a cycling renaissance. The story of the Trexlertown Velodrome, a 333-meter concrete track built by philanthropist Bob Rodale, is one of vision, resilience, and the power of sport to transform communities. This article explores how a once-mocked “white elephant” evolved into a cornerstone of American track cycling, reshaping the sport’s landscape and inspiring generations of athletes.

The Vision Behind the Velodrome

Bob Rodale, the founder of Rodale Press, envisioned the Trexlertown Velodrome as a hub to promote cycling as a healthy, accessible activity. His commitment to the sport was rooted in his own passion for cycling, reflected in his signature earth shoes and bearded persona. The velodrome, completed in 1975, was a bold investment in a sport that had seen its golden age of six-day races in smoke-filled arenas like Madison Square Garden fade into obscurity.

Initially met with skepticism, the project faced criticism from local media, which labeled it a “white elephant.” Yet Rodale’s belief in the potential of track cycling persisted. As journalist and former cyclist Jack Simes recalled, “Bob didn’t just build a track—he built a platform for a new era of cycling.”

The Birth of a Cycling Dynasty

The velodrome’s early years were marked by challenges. The inaugural event on October 12, 1975, drew only 400 attendees, and the facility lacked basic amenities like fencing and adequate seating. However, the arrival of Jack Simes, a former Olympic sprinter and US cycling legend, marked a turning point. Simes, who had competed in the 1964 Olympics, became the velodrome’s director, transforming it into a vibrant hub of competition and community.

Simes and his partner, former cyclist and race announcer, collaborated to create a dynamic show that blended high-speed racing with entertainment. “We treated every night like a Six Day race,” Simes said. “The goal was to make cycling exciting again, to bring the energy of the past into the present.”

Reviving Track Cycling: From Niche to Mainstream

The velodrome’s success hinged on its ability to attract both elite athletes and local fans. By the mid-1970s, it had become a regular stop for international competitors, including legends like Eddy Merckx, who made a guest appearance in 1978. The 1978 International Madison Championships, featuring top European pros, drew record crowds and cemented Trexlertown’s reputation as a premier racing venue.

Key to the velodrome’s growth was its focus on youth development. Programs like the Air Products Development Program and the Trexlertown Express team provided opportunities for young cyclists, many of whom went on to represent the U.S. In the Olympics. “We didn’t just race—we built a culture,” said Simes. “The velodrome became a place where kids could dream big.”

Cultural Clashes and Legacy

Despite its success, the velodrome faced internal challenges. The integration of the facility under Rodale Press led to tensions between its cycling-focused mission and the publisher’s broader interests. By 1978, Simes and his partner had to navigate these conflicts, ultimately choosing to pursue their own ventures with Omni-Sports. “We wanted to scale what we’d built,” Simes explained. “The velodrome was just the beginning.”

Today, the Trexlertown Velodrome remains a symbol of American cycling’s resilience. Its legacy is evident in the success of alumni like Olympic medalists Bobby Lea and Tanya Lindenmuth, as well as the continued growth of track cycling programs nationwide. As Simes reflects, “The velodrome proved that cycling could thrive in the U.S.—not just as a hobby, but as a serious, exciting sport.”

Key Takeaways

• The Trexlertown Velodrome, built by Bob Rodale in 1975, revived American track cycling during a critical period.
• Jack Simes and his team transformed the facility into a cultural phenomenon, blending racing with entertainment.
• Programs for youth development and international competition helped establish the velodrome as a global hub.
• Despite internal challenges, its legacy endures through the athletes and programs it inspired.

FAQ: The Trexlertown Velodrome

When was the Trexlertown Velodrome built?

The velodrome was completed in 1975, with its first event held on October 12, 1975.

Who was Bob Rodale?

Bob Rodale was the founder of Rodale Press and a passionate cyclist. His vision for the