Biketreks Racing Academy Coach, Sports Masseur and British Cycling Commissaire Jon Taylor (Bike & Body) continues the Road Racing 101 series on tips for newcomers. (Pictures by Ed Rollason)
There are many basic points that any rider should be aware of when racing, and even some of the seasoned riders forget the basics. So heres a few starting pointers. In this part we’ll cover Flags!
Flags
Neutralised. This red and white chequered flag is held out of the assistant commissaires vehicle until the race starts. This is normally ised when riding a mile or two from HQ to the race route. As soon as it is safe to start the race the flag is pulled in to the car and the car will pull away. Race on!!
If however you see the flag re appear during the race, you slow to club run pace and follow the assistant commissaire car.
Black flag. At this point you STOP!! This normally means that something dangerous has halted the race and you cannot proceed. If this situation is unresolved the race is cancelled. Normally though there is a delay and you continue.
Red flag – Held by marshalls on races to warn traffic of your approach. This flag does not concern you as a rider.
White flag – Points are awarded to the person crossing the line first when this flag is shown. On the previous lap you will hear a whistle blown by the judges on the finish line which indicates that the white flag (prime flag) will be shown next lap.
Chequered flag – My favourite. This is the race finish. On a road race you may see this earlier than expected if you are left by the leading group. You will however still be placed in the results, just that the judges have decided to not make you suffer an unnecessary lap.
