The kids have broken up for half-term! They're excited but how are we going to keep them entertained next week? Ride Velo took 10 year-old Zac for a few spins around the Lee Valley Velo Park to burn off some excess energy - and have an adult workout in the process!
The London 2012 Olympic Velodrome and Velopark at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratord, East London
The Lea Valley VeloPark is a fantastic place to take kids of literally all ages - starting with VeloBalance for 2-5 year-olds, to organised school holiday sessions which ensure kids keep fit and have fun while away from school. Children (and their parents) can experience the thrills of track cycling, play on the BMX track, ride the 1 mile road circuit or even try out a challenging 5 mile mountain-bike trail.
BMX Sessions at the VeloPark for children over half-term £18 for 7 - 16 year-olds
A range of sessions from tasters, pay and ride to structured skills lessons are available for each of the four Olympic disciplines, so whatever their ability they can make progress or try out new skills. Bikes, helmets etc are all available to hire at the Velodrome and are often included in the price.
Mums and Dads can race each other while the children cheer!
"I obviously liked it because there are no idiots around to get in your way," said Zac after his afternoon session on the road circuit. "It's good fun going up the bridges and down the tunnels too."
Zac and Robbie battling it out in the race to the finish line
The VeloPark really is a hidden gem in London. It's fairly hard to find any signs or publicity about all the activities on offer. Our advice is to head for the main entrance of the Velodrome and ask!
