Members riding out of grade has been a point of contention in the club stretching back a considerable time. Previously there has been an understanding that if riders rode down a grade they would take no active part in that grade's race and ride at the rear of the bunch. Some riders did this but others have interfered with lower grades' racing by putting in attacks, pulling back breakaways etc. Some riders also seem to pick and choose which grade they will ride in depending on how much training they've been doing, whether the race is hilly etc.
Ramblers racing is almost all graded and it is unfair on the majority of our members who race week in, week out, in their right grade to have others regrading themselves as it suits them and affecting others' races. This practice also causes grief for those who give their time compiling results and the points table.
The committee has now adopted a grading policy and wishes to inform members that this policy is being implemented.
The main points are:
* Riders must remain in the grade they are in at the start of a series for the whole series. Except in exceptional circumstances, riding out of grade is not allowed.
* In case of injury or serious illness during a series, riders may apply to the club captain to ride down and if permission is given the member will be informed of any conditions.
* If a member wishes to be graded down they must apply to the club captain two weeks before the start of a new series.
* If a member rides in a lower grade without permission they will be automatically disqualified.
* The policy does not apply to riders riding up a grade.
The committee also acknowledges that the grading process has not been as clear as it could be and we will be working to improve this so that everyone knows where they stand, especially leading up to each new series. The policy will take effect for the upcoming Spring Series and will be available soon on the club website.
