and money to be raised.
(Photo: Brian List/OBRA)
Since a project to renovate the aging surface at Alpenrose Velodrome was announced last month, the Oregon Bicycle Racing Association (OBRA) has seen an outpour of support. Although much of the work to smooth the straightaways is complete, there’s still a big funding gap to pay for that first phase as well as more work that is slated to be done. In hopes of closing that gap, Portland’s Sizzle Pie cycling team, lead by Zak Kovalcik, has paired up with Upper Echelon Fitness to hold a fundraising party this Friday to drum up more support.
OBRA officials say well over 60 local bike teams and over 200 members have stepped up to contribute so for far; but that more money is needed to get this project across the finish line. The initial phase of the project turned out to be more expensive than first thought and OBRA is still about $10,000 short. The next phase, to replace the “apron” (the flat portion inside the track) is estimated to cost another $50,000.
Friday’s fundraiser will include a DJ, track races on the big screen, silent auction with tons of great stuff like massages, bike fits, apparel from local companies like Showers Pass and Rapha, beer from Laurelwood Brewery, and of course lots of pizza from Sizzle Pie!
Prior to the event, an alleycat-style race will be held at 6:00 pm sharp, beginning at Courier Coffee (923 Oak Street) and ending at Upper Echelon, where the party will begin at 7:00.
Bring your friends, family and checkbook and come support Portland’s track racing venue and have some fun while you’re at it. If you can’t attend, you can make a tax-deductible donation via the OBRA website.
- Alpenrose Velodrome Renovation Project Fundraiser
Upper Echelon Fitness (1420 NW 17th Ave, Suite 388)
April 27th, 7-10:00 pm
Event website and Facebook listing