Road Racing

GS Avanti has a very active road racing squad taking part in a variety of races throughout the year.

Members of GS Avanti can click here to request to join the Racing Group and view our internal racing calendar.

If you’re new to road racing and want to know more, have a browse through our Frequently Asked Questions below.  Contact Steve Riley, membership secretary if you have any questions that have not been answered below.  

Frequently asked questions:

How fit do I need to be to start racing?

A certain level of fitness is required to be able to stay with the bunch of riders who take part in races. In Category 4 races, the level where beginners start, you should be able to stay in the bunch if you can happily keep up during the GS Avanti group 1 club runs or summer chain gang rides.

One of the physical challenges of racing is the constant change in pace of the group your cycling in.  You should be prepared to frequently put in short sharp efforts to stick to the wheel in front of you. It’s usually the changes of pace rather than the average speed and distance that tire most riders.

The best way to find out if you’re fit enough is to have a go at racing. If you get dropped, then there’s no shame in riding solo to the finish and it’s the best way to motivate yourself to do a bit more training!

What do I need to race?

You need two things:

• British Cycling Gold or Silver Membership. This can be purchased (annually) at http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/membership/

• A British Cycling Racing Licence, which can also be purchased using the above link. Alternatively, most races allow you to purchase a cheaper 'Day Racing Licence' valid for that race alone. If you’re new to racing and not sure about splashing out on a Racing Licence to last for the whole year, then it may be sensible to purchase a Day Racing Licence to see if racing is your thing.

Remember, one of the benefits of joining GS Avanti is that you get the cost of your licence refunded after participating in 10 races.

Categories and Racing points

There are 5 categories of racing: Elites, 1, 2, 3 and 4. Everyone starts off racing in Category 4 races. To be promoted through the categories riders must acquire points. Points are gained depending on where you finish in races. For example, the winner in a Category 4 race will be awarded 10 points, second place 9 points, and so on until the rider in tenth place receives 1 point.

To move up to 3^rd Cat racing, a 4^th Cat rider needs a total of 10 points. So they could brave it and win one race, or perhaps gain two 5^th place finishes before being promoted.

For a more detailed look at the categories and racing points system, visit:

• Categories explained:

http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/road/article/roadst_Road-Categories_Classifications

• Points explained:

http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/road/article/roadst_National_Regional_Rankings_Explained

Where do GS Avanti riders race?

Most of our riders regularly compete in the South East Road Race League (SERRL) and the Surrey League. GS Avanti is an affiliated club of both leagues so riders benefit from cheaper entry.

A few of us also take part in the Crystal Palace Crit races on a Tuesday evenings during the summer and the Hillingdon Winter Series during the winter.

A calendar of races our riders are attending is available in our forums for those interested in racing with a familiar face or watching.

How do I enter races?

The method varies depending on who is organising the race. For example, SERRL races can be entered either on the day (subject to availability) or online using the Rider HQ website.

It’s usually best to check the website of the organiser of the race to find out how to register. Although most races can be entered on the day, some sell out a few weeks in advance.

Alternatively, click here to visit the British Cycling website, select a race and print off the entry form to enter by post.