FAQ

Bicycle Racing 101: There are 4 categories in the world of USCF Women’s Bicycle racing; CAT 1, 2, 3 and 4. As a beginner, you are labeled as a CAT 4 with the highest level being CAT 1. So, how do you go from CAT 4 to CAT 1? The USCF has set up a points system. Throughout the year, you will gain points based on how you finish in a race. Earn enough points and you can apply for an upgrade to your USCF license; you “CAT Up” so to speak. Sounds easy enough doesn’t it? Well, sort of. Oftentimes in Women’s racing, all categories end up racing together. As a CAT 4 you will line up with Cat 1 and Elite racers and let’s be realistic, that’s not only intimidating, but it’s not a good catalyst for you to grow into the sport. That’s how the ALGABRA series can help:

How are points awarded?
1st place: 100 points
2nd place: 95 points
3rd place: 90 points
4th place: 85 points
5th place: 80 points
6th place: 75 points
7th place: 72 points
8th place: 70 points
9th place: 68 points
10th place: 66 points
11th place: 64 points
12th place: 62 points
13th place: 60 points
14th place: 58 points
15th place: 56 points
16th place and below: 20 points

Is this racing series a points series? If so, what is a points series?
This racing series is a points series that combines existing races on the Georgia and Alabama racing calendars into an overall series.

Does it cost anything to join the Series?
There is no extra charge, beyond normal race entry fees (usually $20-25), to participate in the Series. Completing any of the races in the Series Schedule automatically enrolls you.

Who is eligible to participate?
The Series is open to all Category 4 women no matter what your age. You do not have to live in Alabama or Georgia to participate in the Series. Simply register for (and finish) any of the races on the Series schedule, and you will be included.

If I’m new to racing, is there anything special I have to do at a race?
No, just show up and race. If you have questions, find Lee Farabaugh or Molly Freeman (or anyone in a Cycleworks or Sorella kit). They are all nice and friendly.

What happens if I upgrade during the season?
Upgrading to a higher category is a great accomplishment and is one of the goals of having the Series. We hope that more women will graduate into the higher ranks and more women will try it as beginners. This grows the sport! If you’ve earned an upgrade, you will keep any accumulated points in the category in which you earned them. Once you become a Cat 3, unfortunately you cannot continue to earn points in the series. But you should be proud of your accomplishment and go forth racing as a Cat 3!

Do I have to upgrade?
No, it’s up to you. But if you race often enough and find yourself placing consistently in the top few, you may earn enough points that the upgrade is mandatory. If you are mandatorily upgraded, you will no longer be eligible to compete for additional Series points. However, the points accumulated through that time will be retained for overall standings.

How do I know how many points I have?
The accumulated points totals will be tallied after series races and will be available on our results page.

What happens if I’m disqualified from a race?
If you are disqualified either during or after a race, you will be removed from the Series results for that event. You should check to see if there is a protest period or protest procedure if you disagree with the officials. All results are provided by the officials and the race promoters, and those results are final.

What happens if I finished but my name is not on the results list?
Use the protest period to make sure you’re included! The promoters and officials will provide results as deep as they can, but it’s not always possible for eyes or cameras to see everyone. Make sure you are listed on the posted results and bring any discrepancies to the attention of the race officials before the end of the protest period.

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