The Manning Valley Cycle Club - Criterium Circuit, located in Taree on the mid north coast of NSW, is a vibrant and inclusive gym that caters to cyclists of all ages and abilities. The club encompasses a wide area, including Forster and Tuncurry, and works closely with the Forster Triathlon Club and Manning-Great Lakes Tip Riders MTB Club. With the formation of AusCycling as the peak body for all cycling disciplines, members of the Manning Valley Cycle Club now have the opportunity to compete in any of the sections with one licence.
The winter race programme at Manning Valley Cycle Club runs from April to October and takes place on Saturday afternoons. The club currently has seven police and MidCoast Council-approved road courses to conduct events. These courses offer members and visitors a variety of terrains, from challenging hills to flat time trial courses. The programme includes both club events and interclub challenges with the Port Macquarie Cycle Club.
During the daylight savings months, the club holds a summer criterium programme on Wednesday evenings between November and March. This programme utilises two circuits, including a 1. 2 km criterium circuit at the Taree Recreational Ground on Bligh St, as well as the Kolodong Industrial Estate off the Wingham Road, both of which have police approval. These circuits provide safe and exciting racing opportunities for members and visitors.
Affiliated with AusCycling, the Manning Valley Cycle Club offers racing, recreational, and non-riding official's licences, all of which come with insurance cover. This ensures that members are protected while participating in club activities. For further information on licences and insurance cover, individuals can visit AusCycling's website.
The Manning Valley Cycle Club also welcomes both members and non-members to join their bunch and training rides. These rides, which cater to varying levels of fitness and riding capability, are held regularly at different locations. However, it's important to note that these bunch rides are not organised by the MVCC, and the club bears no responsibility for the conduct or safety of participants. Individuals join these rides at their own risk and are advised to take necessary precautions.
The rich history of the Manning Valley Cycle Club dates back to April 1963, although cycling races in the area were conducted under the banner of the Taree Cycle Club since the early 1900s. Over the years, the club has hosted major events such as the Port Macquarie to Taree, Kew to Taree, and Gloucester to Wingham races. These events have attracted esteemed participants, including the Commonwealth Games team in 1982, as well as State and Country Championships.
In the past, the club had a velodrome at the Wingham Sporting Complex. Although the surface deteriorated over time and is no longer used, the club now boasts a 1. 2 km criterium circuit at the Taree Recreational Ground. This circuit, with its “hot mix” surface and width equivalent to a standard single lane road, provides a safe environment for summer criterium races, particularly for junior riders.
Additionally, the circuit is utilised for year-round training and junior development programmes. The facility features full lighting for night riding.
To accommodate the club's activities, the Manning Valley Cycle Club has also constructed a clubhouse in partnership with the Manning Valley Hockey Association. This facility offers a central gathering point for members and serves as a hub for various club-related activities.
The Manning Valley Cycle Club - Criterium Circuit prides itself on its inclusive nature and commitment to fostering a vibrant cycling community. With its diverse range of activities, courses, and events, the club provides an excellent platform for cyclists of all levels to pursue their passion for cycling in a supportive and enjoyable environment.