With the start of a new series some members may be returning to action and not be aware that the club has implemented a grading policy from the Spring series. It was first publicised in July and for the information of any who missed it we repeat the policy’s background:
Members riding out of grade have been a point of contention in the club for some 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 and so forth. Some riders also seem to pick and choose which grade they will ride in depending on how much training they've been doing, or whether the race is hilly.
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 re-grading 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 adopted a grading policy and 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 isqualified.
* The policy does not apply to riders riding up a grade.
