FAQ
When does the season starts/ends? Typically the season begins in the middle of May and ends the first week in September within a calendar year. The 2008 web calendar is available by clicking here. In 2008, the season has been extended one week to provide a rain date for the end of season BBQ.
Who do I contact to reserve the velodrome for private use? The private use of the velodrome can be reserved with the Northbrook Park District by calling (847) 291-2369.
What are the fees to race on Thursday Nights at the Ed Rudolph Velodrome? Women/Men over 18 years of age $20 and Junior under 18 years of age $10. Juniors wishing to race category races are charged an additional $10 per night.
What time does Thursday Night racing starts? Racing begins at 6:45 p.m.
Can I purchase a season pass to race on Thursday Nights at the Ed Rudolph Velodrome? Yes, a season pass schedule of fees is available. The 2008 racing season at Ed Rudolph Velodrome offers USAC yearly license holders the opportunity to purchase a season pass to cover all 18 nights of racing in 2008. The cost is $300 ($360 compared to buying a nightly pass) for men and women 18 years and over; juniors will pay $160 when competing in junior category races ($180 compared to buying a nightly pass). The season pass covers your entry fee to all Thursday Night USCF races and is non-refundable. It does not include the annual number fee, entry into the Rider of the Year (ROTY) competition, the Monday night, weekend Velodrome championship events or juniors wishing to compete in non-junior category races (there is a $10 up charge for non-junior category races). If you have further questions, please contact the Race Director at manray@northbrookvelodrome.org
Do I need to a license to race on Thursday Nights? Yes, a United States Cycling (USAC) license is required. To race on Thursday nights all riders, except junior category riders must hold a category IV or higher USAC license. To obtain category IV upgrade a rider must follow the procedures enclosed in this form. All women are considered category IV riders (upon purchasing a yearly/daily license). Weekly clinics held on Monday and Tuesday are suggested to gain confidence racing at the velodrome.
We suggest that you purchase your yearly license in advance at United States Cycling (USAC). The 2007 schedule of yearly fees can be found here.
Can I use my road bike to race at the velodrome? Yes, a road bike can be used to participate in the Developmental Bike Racing Series held on Friday nights from June to August.
What if I don't have a track bike? If you don’t have a track bike, loaner track bikes are available at no charge from Turin or Alberto's. You may contact Turin Bicycle at (847) 864-7660 and Alberto’s (847) 446-2042. Additionally, the velodrome has a limited number of track bikes to rent at $5.00 to be used during weekly clinics, Thursday Night racing and Friday Developmental Bike Racing.
Is the Ed Rudolph Velodrome available for public use? Yes, the Ed Rudolph Velodrome (ERV) is available for daily use, however, individuals should verify with the Northbrook Park District to ensure that the infields are not being used by community programs. Individuals are directed to call (847) 291-2369 to check available daily usage times.
Are spectators welcomed, if so what is the cost to spectate the Thursday Night Races? Yes, spectators are always welcomed and the fee for individuals to witness the thrill of track cycling is $2.00 for 12 years to adult and free to children under 12 years of age.
What are the track junior gearing restrictions? The USA Cycling enacted new track gearing restrictions for junior racers that took effect immediately. The new rule can be found in the 2007 USA Cycling Rule Book and you can also read about it here.
Can we bring our own food and beverages? The Ed Rudolph Velodrome (ERV) has a no glass/alcohol policy and we encourage you to purchase the reasonable price goods at the chalet. The revenue from the chalet helps support our programs.
What's a racer to do when bad weather is heading towards the Village of Northbrook or it is raining? The NCC will make every attempt to keep riders informed. Please call 847-291-2974 extension 645 at/after 3:00 p.m. (CST) to keep abreast of whether the races will be held.
