5 years ago
The Emirates Arena and adjoining Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome in the East End of Glasgow form one of the most versatile structures of its kind in Europe. These state-of-the-art facilities, owned by Glasgow City Council, are located alongside the Athletes’ Village.
The venues might be the new kids on the block, but with more than 10,000 people passing through their doors on opening weekend, they have quickly become a city landmark. As well as hosting international competition, the venues will aid the development of the next generation of elite Scottish athletes and provide first-class facilities for the community.
The Emirates Arena
The Emirates Arena will provide a dramatic setting for the Badminton competition. The action will take place on six courts. In terms of sheer engineering innovation, the Emirates Arena is unparalleled in Scotland and one of the largest facilities of its kind in Europe. The complex includes dance and fitness studios, external multi-court areas and the facility is the administrative hub for several national sports federations and Glasgow Life’s Sports Development unit. The arena is also a national training centre for Athletics, Basketball, Netball, Track Cycling and Volleyball.
Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome
Scotland has an outstanding record in international track cycling competition, winning six medals in the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games and three at Delhi 2010. The ambitious design and quality of the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome celebrates this success.
The Velodrome is named in honour of the UK’s most successful Gold-medal winning Olympian and Scottish Commonwealth Games champion. Its 250-metre track has been designed by Ralph Schuermann, one of the world’s foremost track designers.
As shown on the map, the Emirates Arena is located in the east end of Glasgow, on the north bank of the River Clyde. The arena is 2.2 miles from Glasgow city centre. It is easily accessible on foot and by cycle, or by public transport as it is served by multiple rail and bus routes. Car parking at or near the venue will be restricted to authorised vehicles only.
Fast facts
- The Emirates Arena has a 200 metre, 6 lane athletics track which is hydraulically operated to allow for other events, such as the badminton, to be held.
- The arena is also the new home of Scotland’s only professional basketball team, the Glasgow Rocks, and Scotland’s leading netball side, the Glasgow Wildcats.
- The Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome played host to the UCI Track Cycling World Cup in November 2012, the Scottish National Track Championships and the UCI Under-13 Track Championships in 2013. A bid is being formulated for the 2016 World Track Championships.
