Sir Mark Cavendish will return to the Isle of Man raceway where he fell in love with cycling as a young boy next month to see it renamed in his honour.
Children from every school in the Isle of Man have been invited to attend the launch of the Sir Mark Cavendish Raceway at the National Sports Centre in Douglas – the culmination of a community project involving thousands of young people.
The project celebrates Sir Mark’s legacy by encouraging the next generation to follow their dreams, while recognising the place where his extraordinary journey began.
Schoolchildren and members of Sir Mark’s former cycling club will have the chance to watch the Manx Missile complete a timed ‘hot lap’ of the 1km circuit, before joining him for a special ride-out lap.
A giant artwork featuring the names of hundreds of pupils will also be unveiled, alongside a new podium, custom finish line, and permanent signage. At the heart of the display is an inspirational quote: “I dreamt of being like my heroes.” This powerful message, drawn from Sir Mark’s own reflections before childhood races, inspired the entire project.
Children have played a creative role throughout – nominating their own heroes, designing banners, and submitting questions for Sir Mark. A select few have been chosen to interview him about his life and career.
Sir Mark said: “I fell in love with cycling right here. It’s where it all began for me, so it’s a very special place. I am deeply moved by the thought and detail that has gone into every element. I can’t wait to help open it with all the children and my family on 27 June.”
Now one of the most decorated riders in cycling history, Sir Mark turned professional at 18 and claimed 165 career wins, including a record 35 Tour de France stage victories.
Daphne Caine MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, said: “This exciting project shows that with belief and determination, anything is possible. Sir Mark is a fantastic role model, and young people are truly at the heart of this — just as he wished.”
Deborah Heather, CEO of Visit Isle of Man, added: “This place played a key role in Sir Mark’s journey — and we’re thrilled to help tell that story to the world. Imagine having the golf club where Tiger Woods first played golf or the football pitch where Lionel Messi scored his first goal – the Isle of Man has something very special and this project honours it.”
