TRACK CYCLING RACE DESCRIPTIONS
SCRATCH RACE
The scratch race is the easiest track race to understand. The race could be short or long. The winner is the first rider across the finish line on the last lap.
UNKNOWN DISTANCE
A variation of the scratch race is the Unknown Distance Race. The chief official chooses the distance. The event is full of suspense and sometimes surprises for both the rider and spectator. It is the sound of the bell that indicates the final lap.
HANDICAP RACE
The Handicap race is another variation of the scratch race. Starter will determine ‘handicap’ for each rider and will start riders accordingly. Frequently used for the younger age groups.
MISS-AND-OUT
Miss-and-Out or “Devil Take the Hindmost” is one of the most exciting track races to both compete in and watch. On each lap the last rider across the start/finish line is removed from the race. In this race all the action is taking place in the back of the field instead of the front.
POINTS RACE
In this mass-start event, competitors sprint for points every 3, 4 or 5 laps and are awarded points based on order of finish. Rider with the most points after the last sprint wins!
MATCH SPRINTS
No track event displays as much variety, excitement and strategy! Usually run with 2-3 riders, riders cautiously stalk each other looking for any tactical advantage. While the first part of the match sprint may seem deliberate, the conclusion is always unpredictable and exciting. As the bell rings on the final lap, the riders commit to their strategy of speed and finesse with the final 200 meters of action.
DANISH
Opposite of a ‘Miss-And-Out,’ also known as a ‘Win-And-Out.’ In a Danish, the winner of the first lap is the winner of the race (and pulls out.) Second place goes to the winner of the second lap, and continues.
SNOWBALL
Winner of the 1st lap receives 1 point. On lap 2, the first two riders receive points, 2 for 1st and 1 for 2nd) On lap 3, the first three riders receive points, 3, 2, 1. Race length is between 3-10 laps, usually proceeded with neutral lap(s.)
TEMPO
Every lap, the first two riders across the line win points, 2 points for 1st and 1 point for 2nd. The rider with the most points wins!
CHARIOT RACE
A one lap race, from a standing start, first rider across the line wins. Usually run with heats and final.
