General Race Rules

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1. ParticipantsMUST wear a helmet(Protective lenses are highly recommended).
2. NO headphones or earphones are allowed while participating.
3. Participants MUST start in their class.
4. Participants MUST cross the finish line with their bike.
5. Shortcuts are not permitted and will result in Disqualification.
6. Participants MUST abide by the guidelines for timing and score keeping (See rules below)
7. The use of foul language or unsportsmanlike conduct toward other articipants will NOT be tolerated. All penalties will be enforced at the direction of the onsite official.
8. Use common sense and courtesy when passing other participants. Yelling “Rider Up” is appropriate in a case where you are eligible to safely pass.
9. If you see a downed rider, alert an official or help them if they are in critical need. 
10. HAVE FUN and BE SAFE!

The Hammies reserves the right to refuse entry to venue or race entry to anyone, for any reason.

All participants are responsible for educating themselves on the rules and following them. All participants are responsible for their safety and the safety of others while on the course. Please pay attention to course markings and to the direction of any course official that may be present.

1. Register in the proper class
2. Attach the number plate to the front of your bike. (SEE IMAGE BELOW FOR PROPER PLACEMENT)
3. Make sure there are no obstructions in front of the plate when crossing the finish line. This includes derailleur/brake cables, body parts, etc.
4. If you DO NOT FINISH the race please DO NOT cross the finish line with your bike and let the timing staff know.
5. As soon as you are finished please pit your bike or remove your number plate before approaching the timing area (this includes the timing tent). If the number plate is near the timing area it could cause erroneous detection and timing results.

If you do not follow these rules it could result in improper timing and/or scoring. It is the responsibility of the participant to ensure proper timing by following the rules.

Will COVID regulations be in place? Yes, we will encourage social distancing whenever possible.

How do I Pre-Register? – Pre-register online. This is encouraged so we are not overwhelmed on race day.  Allow 30 minutes to check-in at registration table to receive your number. Keep this plate for the rest of the races.

Can I Register on Race day? – Yes, provided the race does not sell out prior.  Registration on Race Day will open 1-2 hours before race time and stay open until races begin.  Race Day registration is $50/race. 

How are refunds processed?  Please email thehammiesmtb@gmail.com within 24hours prior to race start time to receive a refund. Or request a transfer to the following race. 

If I did not race in other races, can I race this time? – Yes, preregister now. When you check in at the race we’ll give you a number and race plate for timing/scoring. You do not have to race the series

What course do 10-14 years olds race? – All age groups except Little Hammies (9 and under) race the main course laid out.  

What course will 9 and under race? – Little Hammies (9 and under) will race a short course separate from the race course.  it will be 1 mile or less. Remember, this is for fun. 

I raced last time, do I have to check in? – At the first race you’ll get your number plate. And we encourage you to check in at each event. 

Do I need a new release form for each race? – No, we have your release on file if you have already raced.

What are the “Categories”?- Currently all categories are broken into age groups and then how many laps you plan to race.

I’m a first time racer, is The Hammies ok for me? Yes, everyone is welcome. This is the perfect first timer race! 

How difficult is the course? – At most venues, the course will consist of mostly double track and some single track. The course layouts can be seen when signing up.  The 9 and under class will race a shorter route. 

Can I preride the course? Yes.  Watch the social media pages for info on scheduled course pre-rides.  IF nothing is scheduled your can preside the day before the event. but no presiding on the day of the race.

Do I need to belong to a bike race association? Yes. A USA Cycling membership can be purchased at the race or during pre-registraion online.

Does insurance cost extra? No, it’s included.  But a USA Cycling Membership is required to race. This is not insurance. (Note: our insurance is not your medical insurance, make sure you’re properly covered to prepare for potential injury…mountain biking is a potentially dangerous sport).

Can people come watch? – Yes, that’s what this event is about. SPECTATORS ARE FREE.