We are affiliated to British Cycling which covers Junior, Senior and Master Events in Male and Female categories.
Cycle races are classified and riders categorised so that the races and the riders are sensibly matched for the capability and experience required indicated by the following rider categories:
- Elite
- Category 1
- Category 2
- Category 3
- Category 4
- Junior (A/B/C/D/E)
The above categories require a BC licence to participate and earn ranking points with which riders can progress through the categories. A provisional licence (included in BC Silver membership) is either sufficient to enter or allows a discounted day membership for regional events as a Category 4 rider. Sportives and Go-race rides do not require a BC Licence.
Racing which is accessible to a novice (Category 4) rider includes regular rides as follows: Tuesday races based at Lower Withington, 3 events at Oulton Park, and frequent use of a circuit round Darley Moor (Ashbourne). There is racing for Categories 2 to 4 every weekend in the West Midlands. The CDNW area (Manchester to the Lake District) lists races on many dates organised by clubs throughout the region, many of which cater for “Unregistered riders entering on the day, subject to space”.
Obviously, skills (as well as fitness) are required to participate in racing without causing chaos. Riders need to hold a steady line and minimise unexpected braking unless they see a gap which permits a move. Group riding (the chain gang sessions in particular) provide experience which will help a rider new to racing survive in the crowded peleton environment.