Giordana Velodrome | Rock Hill

Giordana Velodrome in Rock Hill, South Carolina, is a premier cycling facility that highlights the city’s commitment to becoming a hub for sports tourism and outdoor recreation. Opened in 2012, it was the first world-class, Olympic-quality velodrome built in the Carolinas and remains one of only a few in the entire United States. The velodrome is a centerpiece of the Rock Hill Outdoor Center, situated along the Catawba River, and serves both elite athletes and the local community.

History and Development

Built as part of Rock Hill’s larger Riverwalk development project, the velodrome was designed to attract cyclists from across the nation while also encouraging local interest in the sport.

Funded through a mix of city investment and corporate sponsorship, it reflects Rock Hill’s strategy to boost sports tourism and diversify its recreational offerings.

The facility was named after Giordana Cycling Apparel, an Italian cycling gear manufacturer that sponsored the project.

Design and Features

Track Specifications

The velodrome features a 250-meter, 42-degree banked concrete track, meeting international cycling standards set by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI).

Its design accommodates Olympic-level training and competition, while also being accessible for beginners.

Cycling Programs

Offers youth programs, learn-to-ride sessions, and certification classes, allowing cyclists of all skill levels to safely use the track.

Hosts track cycling races, time trials, and endurance events, drawing both amateurs and professionals.

Support Facilities

Includes spectator seating, a timing booth, restrooms, and a staging area for athletes.

Adjacent to the track are training areas and green space, connecting to Riverwalk’s larger trail network.

Events and Competitions

The Giordana Velodrome regularly hosts regional, national, and international cycling competitions, including USA Cycling events.

It has become a training ground for athletes aspiring to compete in national and global championships.

Beyond elite racing, it supports community cycling festivals, family-friendly rides, and school outreach programs, blending high performance with accessibility.

Community and Economic Impact

The velodrome has positioned Rock Hill as a cycling destination, complementing other facilities like the Novant Health BMX Supercross Track and Criterium Course.

It stimulates the local economy by attracting athletes, coaches, and spectators from across the country.

For residents, it offers a unique recreational opportunity rarely available in U.S. cities, encouraging fitness and cycling culture.

Character and Identity

The Giordana Velodrome embodies Rock Hill’s vision of being the “Sports Tourism Capital of South Carolina.” While it brings in professional cycling prestige, it also remains a welcoming community resource where locals can ride the same track as world-class athletes. Its combination of innovation, inclusivity, and international standard design has made it one of Rock Hill’s most distinctive landmarks.