Junior racing is held regularly on Saturday or Sunday at the Peter Watts Criterium Track Glenvale.
Racing requires a Race Licence, road bicycle (in good working condition & appropriately sized for the rider) and also an Australian Approved Helmet
Times varies with the seasons, so check out our Facebook events for details.
Restrictions For Juniors
There are a number of restrictions that juniors must be mindful of when racing at DDCC club events and other events. These restrictions are detailed in the AusCycling Technical Regulations – Road document.
The restrictions relate to gearing (or gear rollout), wheels and handlebars. Gear restrictions encourage younger riders to ‘spin’, which protects their joints as they develop and assists in creating improved neuromuscular pathways.
Gearing – roll out distances
For junior categories, male and female, the following maximum roll out distances shall apply for:
- Junior U17 7.0 metres
- Junior U15 6.10 metres
- Junior U13 5.5 metres
- Junior U11 and below 5.5 metres
To restrict the rollout distance mentioned above, blocking off may be permitted by the adjustment of the derailleur or other means.
Other equipment restrictions
For all junior categories U9, U11, U13, U15 & U17 the following equipment restrictions will apply:
- Handlebars shall be of a standard or “Classic” style (drop handlebar). However, bolt-on handlebar extensions shall be allowed for U15 & U17 in the Individual Time Trial and Team time trial only. Gear and brake mechanisms must not be placed on the extensions.
- For all events, wheels must have at least 16 spokes. The rim shall be no more than 44mm in depth.
- Only high-pressure detachable tyres including tubelessshall be used. Such high-pressure tyres shall be beaded.
If any junior needs assistance in meeting these requirements, please contact the club and we can provide advice on the best and easiest way to meet these requirements.
Junior Development
Our Junior Development Program is for 9 to 14-year-olds and aims to promote junior cycling by developing skills on the bike, creating friendships with those who love riding, and an opportunity to race for those who wish to.
Junior skills and group rides also happen at the Criterium Track most Saturdays or Sundays before racing.
Skill sessions develop balance, handling, and maneuvering. A Group ride around the Peter Watts Criterium Track then follows to foster group riding and etiqite skills.
For insurance purposes, riders are required to at least hold a ‘Lifestyle’ licence. All licence requirements can be found at: https://www.auscycling.org.au/membership
An Australian Standards-approved helmet must be worn at all times
New riders are very welcome and the club has some loan bikes available in various sizes for children to try before committing to the expense of outright purchase of a bike.