Para-cycling (Participation & Development)
The National Para-cycling Program incorporates both the Para-cycling High Performance Program (HPP) and the Para-cycling Development Program (PDP), creating a pathway for riders, coaches and staff to flow from entry-level beginners through to top end elite.
The partnership between the Australian Paralympic Committee (
The CA Para-cycling Program is funded by the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) via the
Para-cycling Membership and Classification
For some people with a disability cycling is a fast and competitive sport whilst for others it is a recreational activity. Riders either compete on a track (also known as a velodrome) or on the road. Track racing has various types of events including sprints and individual time trials whilst road races are conducted on regular roads.
Depending on the type and level of disability, riders can compete using standard racing bikes, sometimes with slight modifications, tandems, tricycles and handcycles.
Eligibility
All Para-cycling riders must comply with the following eligibility requirements to be able to race competitively in Australia.
- Be an affiliated member of Cycling Australia or hold a licence issued by an UCI affiliate National Federation
Classification is simply a structure for competition. Not unlike wrestling, boxing and weightlifting where athletes are categorised by weight classes, athletes with disabilities are grouped in classes defined by the degree of function presented by the disability. At the beginning of 2010 a new classification system was introduced by the UCI.
The system of classification places those with physical disabilities as a result of but not limited to brain or neural associated conditions and or other locomotive disabilities, for example amputees, into groups which describe their functional ability to cycle.
The classification process is exhaustive and has been designed to create the most practical and appropriate environment for competition with one’s peers.
Classification procedures:
- New athletes without a provisional class should contact their State Association or Cycling Australia Development Officer
- The Development Officer will collect data regarding athletes disability/contact details and request provisional classification
- Athletes will be contacted if any further information is required
- Athletes are advised on their class if possible via email
- All athletes competing at national events are expected to attend classification prior to the event to ensure eligibility
Special Notes
- Please note that intellectual or learning capacity is not part of the classification process. Individuals will only be classified on their physical disability as noted above.
- For those who have hearing impairment please contact Deaf Sports Australia
Classification Divisions and Associated Equipment
- Visually Impaired and Blind (B & VI), competing on two wheeled tandems with a sighted pilot
- Handcycling Classes H1, H2, H3 and H4, competing on three wheeled hand propelled cycles
- Tricycle Classes T1 and T2, competing on three wheeled leg propelled cycles
- Classifications C1, C2, C3 , C4 and C5, competing on two wheeled cycles
For more specific information on rules and regulations pertaining to Para-cycling please refer to the UCI’s website here
Membership
To find out how to become a member of Cycling Australia [click here]
Once you have become a member of Cycling Australia you will find there are numerous opportunities for you to compete in club events around the country. Being a member of a club doesn’t necessarily mean that you can only compete with that club. Most clubs allow and encourage visitors however if you are thinking of competing away from your home base you are advised to enquire with the club you’re going to visit well in advance. You can track down other clubs through Cycling Australia’s website by clicking here.
The place to start your racing career is at club level and we cannot understate how important it is for you to do this and to develop networks with like minded people.
Some clubs run local weekly racing but not all will have courses or a competition calendar that will suit your impairment. Each club has its own identity and focus. Some clubs for instance have a strong junior bias, while others may focus on mountain biking, road or track. Also variable amongst clubs is the amount of club racing they organise and run. Their level of social activities is another aspect.
Therefore it is suggested that you inquire with a club that you’ve chosen or interested in joining and ask about their calendar and venues for racing.
Tips on how to start training
Here are some basic tips to help you towards enjoyable cycling.
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Work on your fitness base. Begin with short rides a couple of times per week and gradually increase the distance and frequency over a number of months. Most of your training at this time should be comfortable and you should be able to carry out a conversation without running out of breath.
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With fitness base behind you, start to pick up the intensity. Include some rides that you can talk, but only in short sentences.
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A lot of cycle races finish in a sprint, so it’s important to dedicate a portion of your training to speed and power. Once warmed up, try doing 10-30sec maximum efforts with a break of 2-3 mins. Start with 3-4efforts each session and build it up to around 10 over a number of weeks. This will help your speed.
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As a beginner, the best form of training is racing at club level. It is here you can develop racing skills and tactics which can make the most of your fitness.
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Recovery is an important part of training it can be in a number of forms including sleep, good nutrition, stretching and massage.
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If you are looking for good places to train or a group to ride with contact your local bike shop or your Club for any bunches that leave around your area.
What about a coach?
Accredited cycling coaches reside throughout the state. Any cyclist seeking coaching advice should contact their club to find out if there is an appointed club coach available to help. If your club does not have a coach, contact your state coaching coordinator and ask him/her to provide you with names of accredited coaches working around your area.
Parents and other interested individuals who may wish to extend their knowledge on the training principles associated with cycling can participate in Level One Coaching courses. For further information refer to the Coaching section of this website.
Cycling equipment
Cycling is a sport where new equipment innovations, which supposedly give you the edge, take place at a rapid rate. It’s important to remember that whilst new shiny and often expensive equipment is nice to own, the reality is you can’t buy performance.
Ultimately, it is your fitness, strength and skills that give you good performances. Be sensible with your equipment purchase. Look for equipment that won’t let you down when it matters most. Keep a look out for fellow club members selling second hand equipment.
There are rules regarding bike equipment for various age categories. Cycling clubs will be able to assist in this area. Also consult with the CA Technical Regulations.
Contact
tom.skulander@cycling.org.au
