World Champion Lavreysen Humbled by Hometown Tribute & New BMX Track Named in His Honor
luyksgestel, Netherlands – Track cycling superstar Harrie Lavreysen was visibly moved Saturday as hundreds of residents turned out to celebrate his recent historic four gold medal performance at the Track Cycling World Championships in Chile.The village of Luyksgestel showed its immense pride for the 20-time world champion by renaming the renovated local BMX track in his honor – the “Harrie Lavreysen BMX track.”
“I didn’t expect this at all,” lavreysen said, expressing his surprise at the gesture.
The tribute follows a week of recognition for the Brabant native, including an honor at Friday evening’s PSV Eindhoven vs. Fortuna Sittard football match at the Philips stadium. Lavreysen noted, however, that being celebrated in his hometown felt notably special.
The celebration, held in the monastery park and accompanied by a local band, drew a crowd including Lavreysen’s parents and a throng of enthusiastic fans, despite rainy weather. Mayor of Bergeijk offered words of praise, followed by representatives from cycling club De Durtrappers - the club where Lavreysen began his cycling journey and first showcased his BMX talent.
Lavreysen’s unprecedented four gold medals in Chile - in the sprint, team sprint, keirin, and kilometer time trial – mark the first time a track cyclist has achieved such a feat at a single World Championships.
Following the ceremony, a long line of young cyclists and fans eagerly awaited the prospect to meet Lavreysen for autographs and photos. “Last year ther was such a big celebration that cannot be surpassed,” Lavreysen acknowledged. “But the fact that so many people came today despite the rainy weather is really special to me. I hope I can inspire the youth.”
Looking ahead, lavreysen expressed his determination to continue his dominance on the track. “If Lavreysen has his way, it will certainly not be the last tribute,” he stated, adding, “On the track, he hopes to remain the best in the world in the coming years.”
