The League had a fantastic day at the Herne Hill Velodrome.

Four schools took part in a day of coaching on track bikes — different to normal bikes in that they have no brakes, a fixed wheel gear (which means you can’t stop pedalling), and feet attached to pedals with toe clips.

Riders learnt how to start safely from side of the track and control their bikes round the track, coming to a slow, controlled stop by the handrails.

With each lap of the track, riders had to follow lines progressively higher up the banked course. Track discipline was essential — no passing on the inside, and riders making sure they checked behind before moving up to the line on their right.

Everyone showed impressive confidence at adapting to this new cycling environment and the bike control techniques required.

The day culminated in an inter-school pursuit race. Congratulations to St. Aidan’s for beating North Harringay in the final lap to take the win!

The next HSCL event will be grass track racing at Chestnuts Park on 9th June 2017.

Find out more about the Haringey Schools Cycling League. If you’d like your school to take part, see How to Join.