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Scratch Cycle Racing Explained

Scratch Cycle Racing is an open handicap race format that allows cyclists of all ages and abilities to compete together, with slower riders receiving a head start. The race promotes teamwork, as cyclists are grouped by ability and must work together to maintain their lead against stronger teams. Handicaps are set by the Race Director based on various factors, and while the scratch group starts last, they have a high chance of winning.

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5 views6 pages

Scratch Cycle Racing Explained

Scratch Cycle Racing is an open handicap race format that allows cyclists of all ages and abilities to compete together, with slower riders receiving a head start. The race promotes teamwork, as cyclists are grouped by ability and must work together to maintain their lead against stronger teams. Handicaps are set by the Race Director based on various factors, and while the scratch group starts last, they have a high chance of winning.

Uploaded by

ambuvi
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

1

Scratch Cycle Racing


A unique and exciting race format requiring team and individual effort

Shirlyne Wanjiru
Shirlyne KE105
Wanjiru 0045
KE105 0045
2

Overview
• open handicap cycle race
• all ages and abilities race together
• slowest riders get a head start
• strongest riders chase
• everyone has a chance of winning
• unique race format

Shirlyne Wanjiru
Shirlyne KE105
Wanjiru 0045
KE105 0045
3

Race Format
• cyclists grouped by ability
• each group is given a time handicap
• each group races as a team in matching colours
• all groups converge in the closing stages of the race
• race winner is the first rider over the finishing line
• fastest race time also receives recognition

Shirlyne Wanjiru
Shirlyne KE105
Wanjiru 0045
KE105 0045
4

Handicaps
• handicaps are determined by the Race Director
• based on ability, previous race results, course profile and
weather conditions
• start times are staggered
• slowest cyclists leave first (limit group)
• the strongest cyclists leave last (scratch group)

Shirlyne Wanjiru
Shirlyne KE105
Wanjiru 0045
KE105 0045
5

Race Tactics
• race format promotes teamwork as an individual cannot outrun
the chasing teams
• each team works together to stay ahead of the chasing groups
and to close the gap to the group ahead
• team members alternate leading the group
• slipstreaming saves energy and increases the team speed
• most races end in an individual sprint for the finish line

Shirlyne Wanjiru
Shirlyne KE105
Wanjiru 0045
KE105 0045
6

Scratch Group Cyclists


• won 42.1% of the time despite starting last
• have the greatest likelihood of winning
• win often, but not always
• won less than half the time despite being the fastest cyclists

Shirlyne Wanjiru
Shirlyne KE105
Wanjiru 0045
KE105 0045

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