Track Cycling Summary 2026

Last week’s British Cycling National Junior Track Championships in Manchester was one of those experiences you hold onto. Six days away from home, full of effort and emotion, and worth every minute.

My son, Oliver had a brilliant week. He finished 4th in the Keirin Finals and 10th in the Match Sprint, with a personal best in qualifying. A 10.854 second flying 200m is seriously quick at 66kph or 41mph.

It rounds off a huge year of racing across England, Scotland and Wales. Manchester, London, Stoke‑on‑Trent, Derby, Glasgow and Newport have all featured, with wins, podiums and even the top step.

His journey began seven years ago after meeting Sir Chris Hoy at the National Cycling Show. A short conversation, a signed book and a photo made a big impression. Since then, cyclocross winters, club 10’s, talent ID testing, RSR camps and racing at every major velodrome have shaped him.

I’ve watched him grow from a young rider into a young man with qualities that matter far beyond sport. He has resilience, discipline, focus, humility and a willingness to support others. He handles pressure well and learns quickly from setbacks.

Track cycling can be a lonely sport with six days a week of solo training, but he has built strong friendships. On race days he is fully locked in. Between races he sits with his group in the track centre, sharing food, music and plenty of laughs.

These traits will help him in whatever comes next. With Maths, Physics and Business Studies A‑Levels ahead and ambitions in Finance and Accounting, his mindset around marginal gains, data and detail already feels like a natural fit.

Proud of his results, but even more proud of the person he is becoming.

Jim Haysom

Photo credit: Milan Josey https://www.milanjosy.com/