What is the difference between a interscholastic race, a sanctioned race, a UCI race and USA Cycling National Championships

These terms refer to different types of races and events in the context of cycling. Here's an explanation of each:

1. Interscholastic Race: An interscholastic race is a competition specifically organized for student athletes representing their schools or educational institutions. These races are typically limited to participants from specific schools or school districts. Interscholastic races are often part of school-based sports programs or leagues and provide young riders with opportunities to compete against their peers in a structured environment.

• Generally speaking a USA Cycling membership is not required to compete in these events.

2. Sanctioned Race: A sanctioned race is an event that has received approval and recognition from a governing body, such as USA Cycling. The governing body ensures that the race meets certain standards and follows specific rules and regulations. Sanctioned races often have licensed officials, standardized categories, and appropriate safety measures in place. Participating in sanctioned races allows riders to earn points, upgrade their racing category, and compete within a recognized framework.

• To compete in a sanctioned event an athlete will need to hold a USA Cycling Race license to compete in this event.

3. UCI Sanctioned Race: UCI stands for Union Cycliste Internationale, which is the international governing body for the sport of cycling. UCI races are events that are organized and regulated by the UCI. These races typically have international participation and are part of various UCI-sanctioned series, such as the UCI World Cup or UCI World Championships. UCI races are subject to UCI rules and regulations, and they feature elite-level competition with professional riders from around the world.

• For UCI Sanctioned races here in the United States there are only three age group category of events that need a UCI/International license: Junior 17-18, Under 23, and Elite, all other age groups and categories will just need a normal USA Cycling domestic license.

4. USA Cycling National Championships: The USA Cycling National Championships are prestigious events held annually in the United States. These championships are the pinnacle of domestic competition in various disciplines of cycling, including road racing, track racing, mountain biking, cyclocross, and more. The National Championships bring together the best riders from across the country to compete for national titles and jerseys. Winning a national championship is considered a significant achievement in the American cycling community.

• Depending on the National Championship (best practice read the rules and eligibility guide for each event) a USA Cycling domestic license or International/UCI license will be required.

In summary, interscholastic races are school-based events for student athletes, sanctioned races are events approved and regulated by the governing body (such as USA Cycling), UCI races are international events overseen by the Union Cycliste Internationale, and USA Cycling National Championships are high-profile competitions that determine national champions in different cycling disciplines within the United States.