top of page

1. Eligibility to Participate

The event is open to eligible school learners entered in the correct age and gender category. Riders must represent the school they officially attend and compete in their school cycling kit, official school sports clothing or neutral clothing.

A Cycling South Africa membership or racing licence is not required for participation in a Schools MTB event. 

​

2. Applicable Rules

 

The event will be conducted according to the applicable Cycling South Africa Mountain Bike Regulations, together with the event-specific rules contained in the race bible and instructions issued by the race officials.

The organisers reserve the right to amend the programme, course, lap count or starting arrangements where required for safety, weather, rider numbers or operational reasons. Decisions made by the appointed race officials regarding safety and racing matters will be final.

​

3. Rider Safety and Equipment

The rider confirms that:

  • their bicycle is in safe and race-ready condition;

  • they will wear an approved cycling helmet whenever riding a bicycle at the venue;

  • the helmet will remain correctly fitted and fastened;

  • the bicycle has secure handlebar end caps;

  • prohibited accessories, cameras and earphones will not be used during the race;

  • they will obey all course markings, marshals and race officials; and

  • they will not enter a closed course or ride against the direction of the course.

The organisers and officials may prevent a rider from starting or remove a rider from the course if their bicycle, equipment, conduct or condition presents a safety risk.

​

4. Start, Course and Finish Rules

Riders must report to the start area at least 10 minutes before their scheduled race.

Only riders and authorised officials may enter the start chute. Riders must follow the marked course, complete the required number of laps and may not deliberately shorten or leave the course.

When crossing the finish line, riders must:

  • keep both hands on the handlebars;

  • keep both wheels on the ground; and

  • avoid any dangerous or celebratory manoeuvre.

  • ​

5. Outside Assistance

No feeding or technical assistance will be provided during the race. Riders must start with sufficient water and ensure that their bicycles are race-ready before entering the start area.

No parent, coach, teacher or team manager may assist a rider on the course, unless directed by a race official for safety reasons.

​

6. Conduct and Sportsmanship

Riders, parents, teachers, coaches and team managers must behave respectfully toward:

  • other riders and schools;

  • race officials and marshals;

  • volunteers and medical personnel;

  • spectators; and

  • the venue and surrounding environment.

Dangerous riding, abusive behaviour, deliberate obstruction, cheating, interference with another rider or failure to follow an official’s instruction may result in a warning, time penalty, relegation or disqualification.

​

7. Timing, Results and Withdrawals

The rider’s number board must be securely fitted to the front of the bicycle and remain clearly visible.

Any timing or results query must be submitted through the relevant teacher, coach or team manager.

A rider who withdraws, is injured or does not complete the race must report to the timing officials or nearest marshal as soon as possible. This is essential so that all riders can be accounted for.

​

8. Medical Information and Emergency Treatment

​

The parent or guardian authorises the event’s appointed medical personnel to:

  • assess and treat the rider where reasonably necessary;

  • provide emergency first aid;

  • arrange ambulance transport; and

  • refer or transport the rider to an appropriate medical facility if required.

The parent or guardian accepts responsibility for medical expenses not covered by the event, the rider’s medical aid or any applicable insurance.

​

9. Acknowledgement of Risk

Mountain biking and XCO racing involve inherent risks, including falls, collisions, equipment failure, uneven terrain, natural obstacles, changing weather and injury.

The rider and parent or guardian acknowledge these risks and voluntarily consent to the rider’s participation. They confirm that the rider is physically capable of taking part and has sufficient skill and experience for the entered category.

​

10. Indemnity and Limitation of Liability

To the extent permitted by South African law, the rider and parent or guardian agree not to hold Sentraal, Flare Events, Happy Valley, the venue owner, event officials, marshals, volunteers, service providers or sponsors liable for ordinary risks associated with participation in the event.

This clause does not exclude liability that may not lawfully be excluded, including liability arising from gross negligence or intentional misconduct.

​

bottom of page