Velodrome in line for top award

The Olympic velodrome has been nominated for a prestigious award by the Royal Institute of British Architects.

'Stunning venue' nominated for design prize

The velodrome for the 2012 London Olympics is in line to receive a prestigious award for its 'stunning' design. One of the flagship venues at the Olympic Park in Stratford, the velodrome has been nominated the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Stirling Prize for architecture. The Hopkins Architects designed building is one of six nominees shortlisted for the prize, which honours the best European building built or designed in Britain. The building, with its distinctive curved roof, was the first venue to be completed at the Olympic Park and immediately drew praise when it was handed over to organisers in February. It was described by London 2012 chairman Lord Coe as 'a stunning venue built for champions' and London Mayor Boris Johnson said it was 'the crucible in which British champions are forged'. Four-time Olympic gold medallist Sir Chris Hoy added: "It is an incredible venue and you can sense what it is going to be like with all the fans hopefully waving Union Jacks. The track is fast and, with all the natural light, it works so well." The winner of the RIBA award will announced at a dinner in Rotherham on October 1.