Once a hub for Polish cycling, is the focus of a grassroots effort to preserve and revitalize it, ensuring its legacy endures for future generations.
The Nowe Dynasy bike track in Warsaw, located at ul. Podskarbińska 11, is more than just an ordinary velodrome; it’s a symbol of the city’s rich cycling history. This historic track was opened on May 6, 1972, designed by Janusz Kalbarczyk and financed by Polskie Zakłady Optyczne (PZO). It became the cornerstone of the Workers’ Sports Club “Orzeł” PZO, with ambitions of becoming the premier center for Polish track cycling.
From the 1920s through the 1970s, cycling was a popular sport in Warsaw, and Nowe Dynasy contributed significantly to that culture. It hosted the Polish Championships multiple times, as well as the 2nd European Junior Championships in 1974. However, by the late 1970s, the track began showing signs of wear and tear, leading to surface cracks and other structural issues. Despite these challenges, it continued to host competitions until 1985.
After decades of decline and legal disputes over the land, the track was returned to the city of Warsaw in 2018, reigniting interest in its preservation. Local residents, recognizing the track’s historical and community value, are advocating for its revitalization. Recent public consultations revealed a strong preference for transforming the area into a green space dedicated to sports and recreation, suggesting a future that honors the past while embracing new uses. The future of Nowe Dynasy depends on the support of the community and the commitment to preserve a unique piece of Warsaw’s cycling heritage.
