The Nerang Velodrome is fully repaired following rain damage in January and is now waiting to welcome back riders

Back in January, Mother Nature inundated the Gold Coast and left the Nerang velodrome unrecognisable. Just five months later, it’s in better shape than ever.

BACK in January, Mother Nature inundated the Gold Coast and left the Nerang velodrome unrecognisable as the deluge tore sections of the track from its foundation.

CLUBS FACING ‘RUIN’ IF THEY RETURN TO PLAY

Now nearly five months on, the track is repaired and ready for hordes of riders to return although COVID-19 restrictions mean the venue’s doors will remain closed for a few more weeks.

Caitlin McCarty enjoying the revamped facilities at the Nerang velodrome. Photograph: Jason O'Brien

Gold Coast Cycling Club president Dominique Verstreken said the club had welcomed a small group of riders for their first official club activity over the weekend.

The club has not staged an official gathering since March but were able to hit the track once more after restrictions lifted.

VELODROME FLOODED: THE TRUE COST OF DAMAGE

Eighteen riders took to the velodrome on Friday night and completed 100 laps of the resurfaced track, all paced by the club’s new electric moto.

A small number of riders have been testing out the restored facilities. Photograph: Jason O’Brien.

“We’ve fixed up the surfaces where the track had lifted and shifted and they’ve rejoined the cracks using a concrete spray so the cracks are filled and it’s a flat surface again,” he said.

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“Some lines have also been painted back on and are fixed up and ready to be used and we’ve also had the old lights replaced by high-quality lights which can be used at the highest competition level.

“Everyone can’t wait to get back out there.

“A few weeks ago, things were looking really grey but were starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel.”

The revamp represents a remarkable turnaround for the club. Photograph: Jason O'Brien

Cycling Queensland has released a proposed racing schedule for the remainder of 2020 with competition set to recommence in July.

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The Gold Coast is set to host the Junior Tour and under-9, under-11 and under-13 road state championships in August.

Athletes had previously been permitted to ride socially in groups of 10 but Verstreken said club members had been keeping busy via virtual cycling series.

The Gold Coast is set to host the Junior Tour and under-9, under-11 and under-13 road state championships in August. Photograph: Jason O'Brien.

“One of our junior parents started running training meetings online where up to 50 people can join for a virtual ride so it’s the next best thing for now,” he said.

“Cycling Queensland also organised online races and on the weekend they had a national virtual road series races.

“Everyone can’t wait to be back.”