Why is a velodrome so called?

Velodrome comes from the French velo (cycle) and the Greek dromos (race or course). The term velodrome was first used in 1895.

At the London Velopark during the 2012 Olympic Games, gold medals have been won by Philip Hindes, Chris Hoy, and Jason Kenny for Men's team sprint; Ed Clancy, Geraint Thomas, Steven Burke, and Peter Kennaugh for Men's team pursuit; Victoria Pendleton for Women's Kerin; and Danielle King, Laura Trott, Joanna Rowsell for Women's team pursuit.