Entering a mass start Road Race
British Cycling is the main body in the UK that organises and oversees mass start racing. In the South West we mainly have closed road races (also know as Criteriums or Crits) which are perfect for introducing new riders into the road racing scene. There are also a number of mass start road races that are run on open roads.
These events are planned in advance and information can be found on the British Cycling website.
British Cycling Events page
To participate in these events you do not need to be a member of British Cycling (BC) and can take out a temporary day licence - this will allow you to race on the day of the event.
If you are a British Cycling member it is cheaper to take out a day licence.
You can always take out a race licence with your annual British Cycling membership - this does include other benefits but the main one is that it allows you to race and your results can be recorded.
Races can range from 1 hour on a closed circuit through to 100mile road races - most people would start with a closed circuit race to see how you get on.
In Cornwall we are lucky enough to use the closed circuit at Wheal Jane which provides a safe environment to have a go at mass start racing.
British Cycling does have a Race Smart campaign which has some useful information in
Equipment
Your bike will need to meet certain requirements to use in a British Cycling event - dropped handle bars, no mudguards, lights - and of course it should be roadworthy and safe. Youth riders will have gear restrictions. If in doubt ask?
Clothing
You are always encouraged to wear club kit when particpating in a BC event, if you don’t have kit you should wear plain cycling clothing with no trade advertising on them.
On the day
Turn up at least an hour before the race start time to give yourself chance to sign on, have a look at the course and to sort out any issues you may have. Sign on to the event start sheet and collect your race numbers - double check which side any arm numbers need to be affixed.
Officials at the Race
There will be a team of officials at the race, including the organiser, bike/gear checker (if applicable), marhalls, judges and commissaires - they are all there to help make the race a safe and enjoyable experience for you - they are all volunteers.
The commissaire team will inform you about any hazards to look out for and oversee that the race is run in accordance with the relevant rules.
During the Race
You should always consider your fellow races, keep an eye out for any problems and let them know. Marshalls will be in place along the route/course and the commissaire team will be at hand if needed.
After the Race
Hand in any race numbers and collect your licence and make sure you thank the organisers!