What is Road Racing?

Events range from short Junior races of an hour or less, through to one-day Classics of over 250 km, like the Paris-Roubaix or the Tour de France. In the shorter races, the first rider over the line is the winner, but in multi-stage "Tours" there are prizes for each stage winner, for the best sprinter in the race, the best climber (aka King of the Mountains), the leading team, and of course the overall winner.

As with all sports, Road Racing beginners can find their feet in easier events. Under sixteen's ride on what are called closed road circuits, i.e. Goodwood Motor Circuit, Thruxton Motor Circuit, and the Mountbatten Cycle Track to name but a few in our local area - they are courses off the public roads where beginners can race and learn how to ride in a bunch safely.

A stage finish of a five day stage race in Mallorca

For Senior riders (18 years+), beginners start off as 4th Category riders. In most cases the 4th's have their own separate race, but sometimes they will ride with the 3rd's, Women, and Juniors. Again, as stated above, riding the closed road circuits is the best way to learn how to ride in a big bunch, as once you move onto the open road you are confined to a much smaller space.

Racing is great fun, but it's hard work In Road Racing there is a Category structure which is based on your ability as a rider. The better you become, the further up the category system you go.

Each race you enter will have a points system attached to it. Depending on the length and category of the race you will be awarded points. To acquire these points you must either finish in the top 6, 10, 15, or 20 of that race.

Once you have gained enough points to move up to the next category, the BCF will issue you with a new licence stating your new category.

For more information on Road Racing, please click the link which will take you to the British Cycling web site.

What is Track Racing?

Track racing takes place on short (between 150 m and 550 m) tracks consisting of two tight, banked corners joined by two short straights. Track events can be split into two main types - Sprint events, which generally last for less than two minutes and Endurance events which can be up to 40 km in length.

Sprint racing specialties include the "Kilo", a straight 1000 m against the clock, while endurance races include the "Pursuit" where racers pick teams of four or individual riders against each other. The simple aim is to catch or gain time on your opponents who start on the opposite side of the track.

For more information on Track Racing, please click the link that will take you to the British Cycling web site. To find out about Calshot Activities Centre, our local indoor Velodrome again please click the relevant link.