Thousands of children are being invited to take part in a project celebrating the stellar career of Manx cycling legend Sir Mark Cavendish.
Sir Cav retired last year after a career spanning two decades that saw him record 165 race wins, including his record-breaking 35 Tour de France stage wins.
The Sir Mark Cavendish Raceway project aims to inspire the next generation to follow their passion—just as Sir Mark did after first racing at the NSC.
“I fell in love with racing here instantly,” he said. “I can still remember the excitement and the pure joy. It’s a very special place for me and where it all began, so I’m incredibly happy to help inspire the next generation.”
Inspired
Inspired by Sir Cav’s quote, “I dreamt of being like my heroes,” the project encourages young people to dream big.
Schoolchildren will visit the rebranded raceway at its June launch, featuring a mural made of children’s names, fresh signage, a new podium, and a finish line echoing the Manx Missile’s sprints.
Worksheets distributed this week invite pupils to draw their names in bubble writing for the mural, while local cycling clubs also participate.
Children can also name their hero and submit a question for Sir Mark, with the best entries winning an interview opportunity.
Minister Daphne Caine said: “We are incredibly fortunate to have produced such a global icon, who remains so wonderfully humble and connected to his Manx roots.
“This is a really exciting project, and the main message is that anything is possible if you put your mind to it.”
Deborah Heather, CEO at Visit Isle of Man, added: “This track played a significant role in Sir Mark’s extraordinary story, and I’ve no doubt cycling fans will be fascinated to discover more about where his journey began.”
Parents of children not in DESC schools can collect worksheets from the NSC and return them to participate.
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