Zest visits the 2012 Olympics site
The chance to take a look at the Olympic velodrome (and other venues) with cyclist Lizzie Armitstead? Don't mind if we do!
The Olympic Velodrome
London's Velodrome has been nicknamed 'The Pringle' because of its distinctively-shaped roof. It wasn't actually designed after a certain potato-based snack, of course - rather, the shape of the roof is meant to reflect the geometry of the cycling track itself.
It has been built using radical engineering techniques, with a hyper-lightweight roof supported by cables rather than joists. The aim was to create a sleek, efficient structure to reflect the efficient design of a racing bike.
The outside walls of the Velodrome, pictured, are clad in Western Red Cedar wood, while the track itself is made from Siberian pine.
Once the Olympics are over, the Velodrome will become a public cycling facility, where you'll be able to hire a bike and take a turn around the track. Can't wait!
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