The CRCA Board met this week to discuss how we can improve racing safety for the rest of the year and beyond. We talked though a variety of fundamental structure changes, but ultimately we decided to strengthen enforcement on existing rules. Based on photos and videos of Saturday's crash, it was not a matter of a crowded park or format but of reckless riding and members breaking basic rules of racing in Central Park. Below is an outline of our updated plan of action. As the season progresses and the park gets busier, we will continue to monitor safety protocols and adjust finish times or locations as needed.
We cannot have another incident like we did last weekend, and we need everyone's cooperation to ensure so. It's your responsibility to know these rules and behave accordingly.
Basic Rules of CRCA
Do not ride in the recreational/runner's lane**
Do not ride backwards on the drive
Do not ride on footpaths
Do not urinate publicly
Treat club members, racers, officials, park users and the public with respect
New Consequence Structure for Violating CRCA Rules
1st offense: Immediate DQ (pulled from the race, if applicable)
2nd offense: Immediate DQ & Suspension from next race (excludes team from Boyd/Team points)**
3rd offense: Immediate DQ & Suspension for the remainder of the year (excludes team from Boyd/Team points)
**Due to the high potential for danger, runners lane violations will begin at "2nd offense"
Additional Info:
Violations will be reported by race staff, motos, board members or through provided video. However, members can also submit observed violations through the Google Form for results protests, which is open for 48 hours following each race. A report will stand if the violation is sufficiently verified (reported by 2 members of different teams, etc).
Motos will be pulling riders during the race if they violate a rule. Please exit the race quickly, and do not argue. Their decision is final, and they will neutralize the field until you comply.
DQs and suspensions will be published 48-72 hours after each race in a race-report email to membership
If 2 or more teammates are caught violating a rule at the same time, the team will not receive Boyd or Team points at the next race. Individual consequences still apply. Remember, if a team has two suspended riders, the team cannot race in our club series.
Egregious offenses (determined at the discretion of the Board of Directors) will result in immediate suspension for the season
DO NOT RISK IT. We do not want to impose these strict penalties. We want to hold safe races.
NEW Procedure for ambulance on the course:
When an ambulance is on the course, all fields will be neutralized. If an ambulance is in motion within sight of a lead moto, motos will call for a full stop of all fields. Ambulances are the priority always.
Other changes:
More marshals: There will be 2 additional finish line marshals to manage traffic and pedestrian crossings in the finish line chute. There will also be a marshal stationed at Boathouse following the finish to ensure riders are exiting with drive traffic.
Additional finish line signage and course tape to separate racers from recreational park users: coming soon.
Bathrooms: The Boathouse bathrooms will be open 30 minutes prior to race start for the month of April. Beyond April, we are looking at portable options...
