The historic West Park will host the start and finish of the Time Trial road cycling event at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, offering spectators in Wolverhampton the opportunity to see world-class sport on their doorsteps.

Often referred to as ‘the race of truth’, the Time Trial is a straight race against the clock for individual cyclists and is a real test of strength and endurance. Around 80 competitors are expected to take part across the men’s and women’s events and spectators will be able to line the route of the Time Trial, giving local people and visitors a fabulous opportunity to view the drama of the events as they unfold.

Positioned just 18 miles north west of Birmingham and a 10-minute walk from Wolverhampton city centre, the 43-acre West Park opened in in 1882 and the popular destination is now one of England’s finest Victorian parks. Chairman for Birmingham 2022, John Crabtree, said:

“Birmingham 2022 is a regional Games with Birmingham at its heart, and holding our cycling competitions in the Black Country increases our regional reach and will allow thousands of spectators to experience live sport right on their doorsteps.

“West Park is a scenic location and will guarantee a fantastic experience for spectators and cyclists alike, with TV viewers from across the globe also being treated to a showcase of the rich and varied landscape that the West Midlands has to offer.”

The venue announcement was welcomed by the local authorities in Wolverhampton and Warwick with both events expected to offer a strong economic boost, as well as potential volunteering opportunities for the local community.

The venue announcement was welcomed by the local authority in Wolverhampton as the event is expected to offer a strong economic boost, as well as potential volunteering opportunities for the local community. City of Wolverhampton Council Leader, Councillor Ian Brookfield, said:

“I am absolutely delighted that Wolverhampton has been chosen to host the start and finish of the cycling Time Trial for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. The eyes of the world will be on the region, so this is a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase our magnificent city.

“Part of our commitment to Relighting our City is to host world-class events, attracting thousands of visitors to Wolverhampton as a destination. Hosting this event will do exactly that, as well as inspiring our children and young people to live active and healthy lives and maybe even become the next generation of sporting stars.”

The route for the Time Trial has not yet been finalised but Birmingham 2022, organisers of the Games, which will be staged from 28 July to 8 August 2022, is working closely with partners from across the Black Country to look at a suitable route that can showcase key landmarks and the entire local area.

The organisers and local authorities will also be engaging with all local stakeholders, including residents and business owners about the route, when details are available.

It has also been confirmed that a second road cycling event, the Road Race, will start and finish at another historic park, St Nicholas Park in Warwick.

More information about all of the venues for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games is available at birmingham2022.com where you can also sign-up to receive regular updates about the Games.