Racing Categories
A (1)
Our top athletes. To be an Elite rider you should be able to go to most velodromes and be competitive in their premier programs. Bike handling should never really be in doubt and you should feel like you can stick with most top riders at any given time. To race as an Elite, your USCF racing license should be a 1 or 2 (or, in a few exceptions, cat 3). Average pack speed: 30+mph. Sprints 40+mph.
B (2)
Expert riders should be just on the cusp of moving up. Maybe you need a little more fitness or riding tactics. Maybe you are a rider who has been racing for a long time, are pretty fit, but have that funny thing called "life" that doesn't allow you to ride 20+ hours anymore. An Expert rider should have excellent bike handling skills. Average pack speed: 25+mph. Sprints 35+mph. Experienced USCF Category 3 and 4 riders.
C (3)
Competitive group riders should be experienced racers with solid bike handling skills and a thorough knowledge of track rules and etiquette. This group will contain riders aiming to move up to the expert level and those looking for good racing without the pressure of battling a field of riders seeking an upgrade to the A group. It is also a place where experienced riders can help newer riders improve their tactics and become better racers. Average pack speed: 22+mph. Sprints 30+mph. USCF Category 4 riders.
Beginning Racer (4)
If you are a new rider you must ride as a Beginning Racer first. No exceptions. This group races on Tuesday night** to coincide with our Masters and Women's races. It is designed for every rider who has recently been certified to race and for anyone who feels that they need more track experience before racing against more seasoned riders. USCF Category 5 riders.
This group will serve as a valuable place to learn the basics of track racing and sharpen your riding skills. To upgrade to the next level and race on Wednesday nights, you must race 4 Tuesday nights and feel comfortable enough with your skills to move to the next level.
**We encourage all new riders to also race at the pursuit challenges and sprints that take place on selected Fridays.
The purpose of this restructuring is to make the racing safer, more exciting and challenging for everyone in every category. We don't want anyone to feel anxious or scared about what group they choose. Give it some thought and race in the category you feel you is the best fit. If you are unsure of what category you are, just ask. We feel we know our riders very well and can help you make that decision much easier. Email Jeff if you are unsure.
Racing is fun when you are able to contest sprints, employ tactics and make things happen. It’s a drag when you are struggling off the back. We want you all to have fun.
Thank you for your understanding and we look forward to the best season ever.
Track Upgrades
All track upgrades are processed by the Velodrome Manager using the following criteria:
- Beginning Rider to C - Complete a Velodrome Class plus 4 Tuesday night races and feel comfortable enough to move to the next level
- C to B - 4 race days and 84 points or Velodrome Directors discretion
- B to A - 4 race days and 105 points or Velodrome Directors discretion
Points are a total of points per night of racing, not omnium points or overall YTD pts. Each race is scored 7,5,3,2,1. Masters points do not count toward your upgrade. It is the responsibility of the rider to keep track their own resume to be submitted once you have reached your needed points. No written resume, no upgrade.
USCF Upgrades follow ATRA rules and can be found in your USCF rule book.
