Manning Valley Cycle Club (MVCC) officially commenced in April 1963, prior to this, cycling races in the area were conducted under the banner of Taree Cycle Club, dating back to the early 1900’s.
Major events held over the years included, Port Macquarie to Taree, Kew to Taree and Gloucester to Wingham. These events have attracted the Commonwealth games team in 1982, State, Country Championships as well as State 2 day tours for both senior and junior riders.
The Club had a Velodrome constructed a number of years ago at the Wingham Sporting Complex. The surface deteriorated over the years and is now not used.
The Club has a Criterium circuit at Taree Recreational Ground 1.2km in distance. It has a “hot mix’ surface with a width approximately equal to a standard single lane road. It is used for the majority of the Summer Criterium race program and during summer offers a safe race environment for juniors. On an all year round basis it is utilised for training and junior development programs. Local schools can also utilise the facility for cycling programs for children during school hours. The Criterium track has full lighting for night riding.
The Club has constructed a clubhouse in conjunction with the Manning Valley Hockey Association. This facility provides a meeting room, roller training room, storage and light refreshment facilities.
The Club has 2 distinct racing seasons, summer and winter. In summer, Criterium races are conducted on Wednesday evenings either on the criterium circuit and at the approved circuits, at the Kolodong Industrial area. The Kolodong circuit of 1.3km is a public road. Criterium races are of a shorter duration, typically 25 – 40 minutes.
Winter events are held on most Saturday afternoons and are also held on roads still open to motorists but with police approval. These events are of a longer duration with each grade contesting events with distances of 30 to 60 km.
Manning Valley and Port Macquarie Cycle Clubs conduct regular joint races as part of the winter road programs. See the current road program for details.
The Club has a riding membership of approximately 120 which includes approximately 25 juniors. Each consecutive year has seen an increasing trend in membership, for example there were 62 members in 2000. The Club has a membership coverage area of Taree, Wingham, Nabiac, Laureton, Forster and Tuncurry.
The Club owns a number of beginners bicycles which are available to new members at a small fee (to cover maintenance and setup). These bikes are in the main for juniors to assist with learning bike skills, safety and racing techniques under the guidance of experienced riders. Contact the Club on mvcc.clubsec@hotmail.com for further details.