Racing

Types of Road Races

Road Race: A road race is a mass-start event on an open road. Team tactics often influence the outcome of these long races.

Criterium: A criterium takes place on a circuit of 800-3000 meters closed to vehicle traffic and features high speed cornering and frequent sprints.

Time Trial: A time trial is an individual race against the clock over a fixed distance. Racers employ an assortment of high tech equipment to improve aerodynamics.

Stage Race: A stage race consists of some or all of the above - road races, criteriums and time trials - and is usually held over a weekend.

Regulations

Riders participating in sanctioned events are responsible for knowing the current regulations. Copies of the regulations are available here.

Registration

Registration for ABA-sanctioned races is typically done in advance; late fees may be imposed for entries received within 3 days of the event. Race-day registration may be allowed at the discretion of the Technical Delegate & Race Organizer. Please be aware, some events have field limits, which may be reached well in advance of the event. Riders are urged to register early.

Body Numbers/Frame Plates

Riders will receive two body numbers and a frame plate when they check in at the race. These numbers, coded by ability category, are to be worn at all ABA-sanctioned races. Riders moving to a different category will be issued new numbers. Frame plates, attached to the frame with wrap-ties, are an integral part of the photo-finish system to be used this season at certain events.

2018 Road Racing Categories:

Men Category 1-2

Men Category 3

Men Category 4

Men Category 5

Women Category 1-3

Women Category 4-5

* the ability category for new riders it is Category 5.

Championship Categories:

U15 Boys/Girls

U17 Men/Women

Junior Men/Women

Espoir Men/Women 19-22

Elite (Senior) Men/.Women 23-29

Master A Men/Women 30-39

Master B Men/Women 40-49

Master C Men/Women 50-59

Master D Men/Women 60-69

Master E Men/Women 70-79

*Category Age on December 31

ABA races may be contested by Ability categories, in which all licensed riders may compete, or Championship categories, which may be open only to riders of a certain age.

Other than selection for the Alberta Provincial Team, Espoir categories are not recognized at ABA races.