USCF Legislation Summary

Thanks to Jim PattonUSCF Trustee, Eastern Region

USA Cycling - Goals USCF Annual meeting held 11/6-7 in Colorado Springs Summary of Legislation

o Emphasis on rules that impact promoters and race promotion

USA Cycling New Rules Webinarhttp://www.usacycling.org/news/user/story.php?id=5914

~ 2 hours

General Rules: Chapter 1 Modified 1E Registered Clubs and Teams

Revision of clubs and teams: the following changes the club/team rules. The main changes are:

1) The emphasis is on being an active club by putting on races versus the former focus on sponsored club. Active clubs can be sponsored etc.

2) Clubs can explicitly have multiple teams.3) Teams may be discipline specific. Riders may race for another

team in a specific discipline e.g. cyclo-cross, even if that team is organized by another club than their licensed club.

Modified 1F defining race positions for officials

General Rules: Chapter 1 (Cont.) Modified 1P – Finish of a Race

o 1P6 Defines timing requirements o 1P7 Defines results tabulation including:

1P7(e) Results are assembled and printed. It is the responsibility of the organizer to provide resources appropriate to the scale of the race for results production. The results are checked by the Chief Judge, who generally signs or initials them to show approval, and whether the results are preliminary or final. The organizer’s staff is then responsible for reproduction and distribution of the results

o Modifies protest period:1P8. Results posting. At the end of the race, the Chief Judge will inform the riders of the time and place where the results will be posted or announced, and the Chief Judge shall be available there to resolve any protest. Prizes may not be distributed until all protests have been answered which affect the podium and awards and at least 15 minutes have passed since the results were announced.

General Rules: Chapter 1 (Cont.) Clarified 1J5. Team entry in races adding.

The following applies by default to teams in events with individual classification e.g. stage races. Organizers may choose to hold team events (team time trials, madisons etc.) with these restrictions, but it must be specified in the race announcement.

Expanded opportunities for Women in Men’s events:1K2. Women may enter any men’s race for which they are eligible by age, category, and any performance requirements except championships. They may also enter categorized races for men that are up to one category lower than their women's category. For road, track, and cyclocross events, category 1 women may enter men’s races up to two categories lower. In addition, category 4 and 3master women who are 35 or older may compete in men’s masters races for all riders up to 20 years greater than their racing age, subject to other eligibility requirements, as follows: category 1 and 2 master women may enter men’s events for riders up to 10 years above their racing ages; category 3 and 4 master women may enter men’s events for riders up to 20 years above their racing ages.

General Rules: Chapter 1 (Cont.) Rider Release Signature modification added to 1J6:

The signature on the release must be an original handwritten signature (a “wet original”); electronic signatures are not acceptable.

Established default field limit for Cross at 100 – 1J7 Field limit for races with Cat 4 Women expanded to 75 – 1J7 1J8 – intended to define Course Limits (maximum number of

riders allowed on a course) – withdrawn Moved Free Entry rule to Chapter 1:

1J15 National and World Champion race entry.Current UCI World or U.S. National Champions, who enter category A, B or C races (except National Championships) by the specified pre-registration closing date, shall be refunded their entry fee (not including insurance fees and surcharges) provided that they are eligible to wear their championship jersey in the race, and do so (see Rule 1N5).

General Rules: Chapter 1 (Cont.) Junior Equipment limitations, 1M – Failed

o Trustees agreed with the intent of the rule, but the proposed restrictions were rejected

o Trustees group tasked with finding better words for future consideration

Helmet rule, including restrictions on Helmet Cams – Withdrawno Rule proposed out of safety concerns

• Helmets are not tested with aftermarket stuff including cameras, lights, visors, etc.

Sleeveless jerseys authorized for TT events 1N5.

General Rules: Chapter 1 (Cont.) Chip Timing/Scoring added as a method of rider

identification:1N8. Chip Timing/Scoring(a) Chips for timing/scoring are provided by the organizer, who may require a deposit that shall be refunded on return of the chips in good order.(b) Riders shall place the chips as prescribed by the officials and in such a way that they will activate the chip sensor upon passing the line. Riders may be warned, relegated, or fined $20 for refusal to wear chips as prescribed.

New Entry Fraud rule:1Q3. Identity Fraud. No licensee may enter a race under an assumed name nor conspire to allow another rider to enter a race under an assumed name. This includes fraudulent use of another rider’s license, racing numbers, or timing/scoring chip [default penalty - one year suspension].

Chapter 2, Track Rules Numerous minor changes:

o 2E – Miss and Outo 2I, 2K, 2L – TT Mishaps and Restartso 2O3 – International Ominium

Chapter 5, Cross Cross Feeding

5A16. Feeding is not permitted unless specifically authorized by the Chief Referee [relegation or disqualification for unauthorized feeding]. If authorized, there is normally no feeding in the first two and final two laps of the race. Temperature of at least 68 degrees is recommended. Feeding only takes place in the pit lane, unless the Chief Referee specifies otherwise.

Pulling Riders clarified5G1. Unless announced otherwise, riders who have been lapped will be pulled from the race using the following procedures:Before the start of a race, it should be announced whether lapped riders will be pulled or remain in the race. If riders are to be pulled, the following applies:

(a) Riders who have been lapped shall continue the lap to a designated location before the finish line and withdraw, under the control of the officials.(b) The Chief Referee may, after consulting with the organizer, impose the 80% rule. Under this rule, riders whose time gap to the race leader is at least 80% of the race leader’s time for the first lap will be pulled by the officials unless it is the final lap. The number of 80% is merely an approximation based on a typical course; the intent is that all riders should be pulled before they are lapped

Chapter 8, Championship Defined eligibility for Women in Men’s championship

o 8b1(d) In National Championships, women may not enter men’s events; in state championships women are not eligible for medals in men’s events.

Junior Tracko Added Cat 3 to Madison 8D8o Added International Omnium 8D7

Added single speed to Cross and defined categories - 8F8 Added Masters Scratch Race 8G10 Rule change to modify Para-cycling classes to include

riders defined by International Paralympic Committee (IPC) failed because the wording lacked definitiono Trustee group assigned to investigate addition of athletes beyond

those defined by UCI

Northeastern Regional Technical Commission Composition

o National Technical Commission (NTC) designees (2)o One member per Local Association

• VAC representative is Ruth Stornettao Up to three at large members

• Steve Stone from MABRA/VACo USAC Regional Rep. (Randy Inglis)

Goals and Objectiveso Identify promising officials in the region and assist with advancemento Provide mentoring opportunities to all officialso Provide appropriate training for all officialso Set policies and guidelines for local officialso Manage Level B upgrade programo Establish a regional evaluation program for officialso Establish an officials recognition program

What is coming?

New Evaluation Systemo More Evaluations – well beyond the current systemo Wider Scope

• Regional Level – done by RTC• Including Organizers and Riders

New Discipline Policieso Including officialso Corrective action is the goal, but discipline can be the

result of poor performance

UPGRADING TO CAT B

Cat B Modules Candidate completes 10 required and two optional

Moduleso The official controls their own pace of advancemento A lack of a clinic in an area will not be a hindranceo The process will make for a much better officialo The checks will make sure that the official has learned the

material and has the practical experience to upgrade.o Through this process, the official will be in close contact with a

member of the USA Cycling Regional Technical Commission, as well as the on-site Chief Referee, who will be able to give valuable mentoring and evaluation to the official.

Cat B Required Modules Module 0 – Customer ServiceModule 1 (Assistant Judge 1) – Judging and ScoringModule 2 (Assistant Timer 1 ) – TimingModule 5 (Assistant Referee/Pit) – Working a pit at a CriteriumModule 6 (Assistant Referee/Crit) – Working as an assistant

referee at a CriteriumModule 8 (Assistant Referee/TT) – Working a TT as a

stager/whip/holderModule 10 (Registrar) – Working a race as a registrarModule 12 (Chief Referee 1) – Pre race preparationModule 13 (Chief Referee 2) – Managing the bicycle raceModule 14 (Chief Referee 3) – Post event paperwork

Cat B Optional Modules – pick 2Module 3 (Assistant Judge 2) – judging omniums

and stage racesModule 4 (Assistant Timer 2) – Timing stage racesModule 7 (Assistant Referee Vehicle) – Working

races from a follow carModule 9 (TT Starter) – Acting as starter for a TTModule 11 (Radio) – Using proper radio protocol

Each Module Contains Introductory material

o goals of the module and any prerequisites, including required reading

A module pre-test o complete and turn in to a designated official.

The observed practical tasks A check off sheet where the tasks can be

documented by the Chief Referee of the race(s) where you complete the moduleo What does this mean for our current CRs?

When can you start the Module process?o NOW! o For everyone licensed before 2011,

• We can work on credit from 2010 once you have completed the Self Test in a module

o What you can not do:• Same CR can not sign off all blocks in most modules;

– You need to demonstrate experience to more than one person• Family members can’t sign for family members

o I will assign mentors to all Cat C officials who request one

• Mentors are responsible for guiding you through the modules• All of the senior officials will help you with race day scenarios

OFFICIALS AND CUSTOMER SERVICE

Did You Do Your Homework? Have you ever said or heard?

o Unfold your number or you’ll be fined $20!o Put your helmet on! (Usually screamed at full volume)o I don’t know. The Chief Judge handles results protests!o The promoter doesn’t need to give you a refund!o You can’t sign someone’s waiver for them. They have to sign it

themselves.o You were relegated for your bad riding behavior. Go home!o Only a coach or the rider can file a protest. I won’t listen to

anyone else!o What kind of idiot do you think I am?

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You are the only uniformed & paid representative of USA Cycling at a local event.

You are probably the ONLY representative of USA Cycling that most riders will ever meet.

You are the one wearing the distinctive uniform, so everyone will ask you questions.

You should always know the answer to them as it will do credit to the officials and to USA Cycling, as well as make everyone happy at the event.

What impression are you giving?

Every time you open your mouth, you represent USA Cycling!

Officials are Customer Service Reps

Who Are Our Customers?

Riders Race Organizer Sponsors Spectators Media USA Cycling Sport of Cycling

What Do Our Customers Want? An opportunity to compete in or see an event that is:

o Fair

• Set the conditions for the strongest rider to win

• See that we are enforcing the rules

• Without being overbearing

o Safe• Know that someone is watching out for them

o Well Organized

• Run on time without unnecessary delays

• Accurate results within 15 minutes or so

Consistency

Rapport

Decisiveness

Poise

Integrity

Judgment

Confidence

Enjoyment & Motivation

Qualities of Good OfficialsBeing the Best Official

You Can Be

All of these characteristics are

essential to providing good customer service

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•Pre-Game

•Game Strategy

•Mental Preparation

•Post-Game Evaluation

Preparing to OfficiateOfficiating is physically and mentally demanding. Both physical and psychological preparation is necessary to officiate effectively. Good officiating is a result of good pre-game preparation and post-game evaluation.

Qualities of Good Officials

When Stuff Happens - Handling Complaints

Handling upset customers requires:o Empathy

and o The ability to keep

your own emotions in check

Keys to Dealing with complaints Listen Don’t be on the defensive Find the exact problem Restate the problem Show empathy and an understanding of their concerns Access the situation, fix the problem or find a solution Give a time estimate on resolving Give a proper answer with reasons Give a gesture of caring Follow up on promises Really think about e-complaints

VCA OFFICIAL OF THE YEAR

VCA Official of the Year Award Recognize the hard work and superior performance of

the USA Cycling Officials who support VCA

Promote increased professionalism by VCA officials

Open to Category B & C Officials who worked 5 or more days of VCA racing

Scored by senior VCA officials on 5 criteriao Score only officials observedo 1-10 points for each criteriao Scores averaged o Ties broken by vote of selection committee

Overall Contribution to VCA  Commitment to growing the VCA Official’s Program:

o Recruiting new officialso Mentoring less experienced officials

Commitment to improving racing within VCA Number, level, and type of VCA races worked and the

position held at those event Goes above and beyond the minimum to create a good

VCA racing experience

Official’s Customer Service Skills Courteous, respectful attitude Communication skills Interactions with racers, promoter & spectators

Official’s Technical Skills  Application of rules Consistency & impartiality Mechanics, positioning skills

Official’s Professional Skills Appropriate uniforms, neat appearance Prepared Thorough Organized Focused on the event, not easily distracted Evidence of continuing growth:

o Officials education o Rules studyo Seeking additional experience

Official’s Presence Presence is the way you conduct yourself

Presence is the way you conduct yourself as an official

Presence is how others perceive you and your officiating

Presence is your style

Presence is not something you are right or wrong about

Presence is not something you can copy

Presence is not holding court

Presence is the sum of your qualities as an official

For exceptional contributions to the Virginia Cycling Association in 2010. Carolyn demonstrated the highest degree of dedication, customer service, technical skills, professionalism and presence while officiating nineteen days of VCA racing.

2010 VCA Official of the YearIs Awarded to

Carolyn Goble

EVENT SKILLS AND BEST PRACTICES

Cross 2011 Chief Ref needs to be more involved ahead of time Check that course length will give AT LEAST a 6 minute lap-

preferably 7 minutes Communicate with promoter if problems arise during race

Keys to Good Cx Scoring Think Vertical w/ longest possible columns Check current lap against prior lap

o You’ll know who hasn’t come through and who hasn’to Lapped riders show up VERY quickly

Work together to solve problemso Fill in missed riders -- Keep your sheet up to date

Maintain a “bad number list”o DNF, Lapped Riders, etc.o Quick Check against the final order of finish

Solve problems quicklyo Really try not to send people away angry!o If we’ve made mistake, 15 minutes isn’t all that important

Road Scoring Where do we have troubles?

o Juniors!!!o Solution – score them exactly the same way we score Cross

• Vertical• Check off EVERY RIDER, EVERY LAP• Keep a good list of lapped riders

Other Fieldso You are responsible for order of finish onlyo Promoter is responsible for Names, Splitting field, etc. 1P7

• CJ still approves final resultso Try to score everyone, even those you pullo If protests are outside the prize list, don’t hold the prizes while

resolving the protests – 1P8

Waivers Must be current year forms Must have all information filled in Must be legible For Juniors

o Must be signed by rider’s parent or legal guardian• May not be signed by the coach, car driver, friend…

o May be signed before arriving at the venue• Requirement is for an original signature (i.e., no copies)

Camera Review Where should the camera be placed?

o Why? How do we focus? What should the shutter speed be? Steps to handle glare? What is the quickest way to start and stop recording?