Rules & Code of Conduct
What every rider at the Malverns Classic needs to know
Before you ride
By entering and taking part in the Malverns Classic, you acknowledge and agree to comply with the rules and regulations below, as well as those set by British Cycling where applicable.
Failure to comply with these rules may result in penalties, disqualification or withdrawal from the event. No refunds, transfers or compensation will be given in these circumstances.
Racing and the course
Governing authority
All applicable rules in the current British Cycling Handbook apply to Malverns Classic sanctioned events.
A minimum of one British Cycling Commissaire will be present at all BC sanctioned events.
Course and marshalling
All race courses are marshalled by trained personnel aged 21 or older, equipped with red and yellow flags, high visibility vests, radios and a daily safety briefing.
Organisers reserve the right to amend or modify courses at any time without prior notice.
Registration and sign on
All riders must sign on before riding or practising. Failure to sign on before registration closes means disqualification.
Riders must start with one foot on the ground unless a start gate or post is available.
Number boards must not be defaced and remain the property of Malverns Classic (£5.00 replacement fee).
Race rules and equipment
Full face helmets are mandatory for Dual Slalom, Quad Eliminator and Downhill.
Helmets must be worn at all times on course, correctly secured and with the visor attached.
Riders are prohibited from:
- Using headphones, earpieces or communication devices during racing or training (disqualification, BC Rule 5.7.11)
- Walking inside taped race course areas (disqualification)
- Wearing skin tight clothing in specified events
- Modifying or detaching helmet peaks
- Using tear off goggle lenses (one tear off permitted if the handle is trimmed, BC Rule 5.6.1)
Safety and wellbeing
Rider agreement and liability
By entering this event, you:
- Acknowledge that mountain biking is a hazardous activity and you take part at your own risk
- Accept that you are responsible for your own safety, decision making and interaction with other participants and the course
- Waive any liability claims against the organisers, sponsors, British Cycling, volunteers, landowners or any affiliated parties for injury, damage or loss
Medical withdrawal
If medical personnel deem a rider unfit to continue, the rider will be withdrawn and their number board removed. No refund or transfer will be issued.
If you see a potential head injury or concussion, please tell the nearest official or marshal immediately.
Riders may be withdrawn at the organisers’ discretion for safety reasons.
Recommended protective equipment
British Cycling guidance. Not mandatory, but riders are strongly encouraged to wear:
- Back, elbow, knee and shoulder protection with rigid components
- Neck and cervical spine protection
- Full length rip resistant trousers, or shorts with separate knee and calf protection
- Long sleeved jersey and full finger gloves
- Eyewear (goggles or glasses)
British Cycling does not warrant or endorse any specific protective product or standard.
Safety and the environment
Respect the environment: no littering or riding off course.
Anti social behaviour, reckless driving, motorbike or mini bike use, or vandalism will result in disqualification or lifetime bans.
Theft or suspicion of theft will result in police involvement.
No drones or personal uplift services (immediate ejection or a one year ban).
On the day
Podium protocol
Riders must attend podiums wearing full race kit or equivalent replica gear.
Neck braces are not permitted on the podium.
Non attendance without prior notice (except for medical reasons) means forfeiting prizes. Substitutes are not allowed on the podium.
Anti doping policy
Riders are subject to In Competition Anti Doping Testing.
All riders, including those who abandon the race, must check whether they are listed for testing.
Testing lists are posted at the Finish Line and the Anti Doping Control Office.
Weather and event changes
In adverse weather, organisers reserve the right to:
- Delay the race start
- Shorten or alter race formats
- Cancel races entirely if necessary
No refunds will be issued in these circumstances.
Disciplinary process
Riders under investigation may need to wait in the finish arena until a British Cycling Commissaire is available. This may cause delays or loss of practice time.
Commissaire decisions are final.
General liability disclaimer
This event is provided “as is”, without warranty of any kind, express or implied, including but not limited to timing systems, course infrastructure, and signage or markings.
The organisers, landowners, sponsors and affiliated personnel accept no liability for damages, loss or injuries arising from or in connection with taking part in the event.
Questions about the rules?
For any rule clarifications or urgent concerns, contact Event Director Si Paton.