Rules

OCA sanctioned races use some CCA/UCI rules with OCA modifications.

2010 OCA Commissaire Handbook

UCI Website

CCA Website

CLICK HERE to view communiques from Road Events

Podium Protocal

Yellow Line Rule - Road

Road races in Ontario almost always take place on open roads, meaning there is a good chance of encountering oncoming traffic on two-way roads.  In the interest of safety of all competitors and the public, and in the interest of having communities continue to welcome our sport, riders are required to ride on the right hand side of the road.

Commonly referred to as “the yellow line rule”, this safety requirement is a result of UCI Regulations requiring riders to “observe the legislation of the country where the race takes place” and also requiring riders “act with the utmost caution”.  In Canada, this means that riders are forbidden from crossing the middle of any road with two-way traffic, whether a line has been painted down the center of the road or not.

There are a few instances where crossing the middle of the road may be tolerated, for example:

·        “Mushrooming” of the front of the bunch because the lead riders have slowed suddenly;

·        Swerving momentarily to avoid a road hazard or an ongoing crash;

·        Tracking slightly wide around a particularly tight corner with marshals present (only when riding in a large bunch).

In any of these circumstances, the amount of time spent in the opposing lane is quite small – usually less than a few seconds.

However, any other reason for crossing the median of the road is generally unacceptable, as is any prolonged crossing, particularly if it is to launch an attack or some other offensive move.  Other unacceptable examples include:

·        The whole pack across the road going at a non-race speed (piano);

·        Individual riders crossing the median to gain an advantage;

·        Riders across the line on a curving descent;

·        Sheltering behind another rider if in doing so the median is crossed (such drafting constitutes an unfair advantage);

·        Several riders across the line during a cross-wind section for an extended period of time.

Enforcement of safety related rules remains a priority of the College of Commissaires.  Riders are encouraged to adopt safe riding practices and safely position themselves within the pack.