The Aberdare Park National Road Races return this weekend (July 16-17), once again attracting top riders from around the country as well as thousands of spectators over the two days.
A two-day, two-wheel spectacular, the Aberdare Park National Road Races are a highlight of the summer events calendar for motorcycle fans who flock to Rhondda Cynon Taf for a weekend of speed and excitement in picturesque surroundings.
Every year, the best riders from across the UK head to the County Borough to compete on the unique circuit around Aberdare Park.
The event, organised by Aberaman Motorcycle Club and supported by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, started in 1950. Racing will commence at 9am on both days, although on Sunday, following tradition, there will be a Church Break between 10:30am and noon. All children up to the age of 16 wishing to attend, must be accompanied by a paying adult. Tickets are available in advance, but visitors can also pay on the day.
Councillor Ann Crimmings, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure, said: “It is wonderful to once again be able to host the annual Aberdare Park National Road Races at this fantastic location.
“Attracting thousands of spectators on both days, the races not only provides a great boost to local business and traders, but are also a fantastic spectacle for race fans to enjoy all the thrills and spills.
“Thanks to the amazing efforts of the Council and the Friends of Aberdare Park Group, Aberdare Park is once again looking fantastic this summer and is a blaze of colour due to the wonderful floral displays.
“Aberdare Park is a fantastic place to visit all year around, with its family activities and attractions and its ever-changing landscape across the four seasons of the year.”
Aberdare Park, which opened on July 27, 1869, is the perfect example of a Victorian age public park. Main features include the Victorian bandstand and boating lake. It also has a beautifully-restored cast iron fountain, one of only three of its kind in the country, made to commemorate the Coronation of King George V in 1937.
The National Eisteddfod was also held at Aberdare Park in 1956 and the Gorsedd Circle from that historic event can still be seen to this day.
The Aberdare Park Road Races take place at Aberdare Park, CF44 8HN, on Saturday/Sunday, July 16-17.
