Racing – Frequently Asked Questions

Do we have to stay overnight for races?

Not necessarily. Races are held across New York State and some venues are farther from Syracuse than others. You’re welcome to travel the morning of the race if that works best for your family. When overnight stays make sense, the team will suggest a hotel for Saturday night—but families are always free to choose their own lodging or camp instead.

Where can I find race locations and hotel info?

We’ll post both the race venues and suggested accommodations on our Race Weekend Info page, and share those links via email and TeamSnap ahead of each race.

What happens on Saturday before a race?

Saturdays are optional but recommended. Here’s what usually happens:

Course Pre-Ride opens mid-day (usually 2–5 p.m.). Riders can preview the course, practice sections, and ask coaches questions.

GRiT Ride happens at 1 p.m. — a fun, supportive ride for all girls, led by female coaches.

Sometimes, for local races, we host a team cookout on Saturday evening!

Do I need to bring anything special on race day?

Yes — race days are full days! Be sure to bring:

Your rider’s bike and helmet (checked and tuned)

Extra water bottles or jugs (we’ll have some Scratch hydration mix available)

Camp chairs for your family

Food/snacks for your rider

Your rider’s team jersey and layers for the weather

We also ask families to contribute food for race day. A sign-up sheet will be sent out the week before the race via TeamSnap and email.

What’s the schedule on race day?

Here’s the typical race morning timeline:

Arrival: At least 1.5 hours before your rider’s start time

Sunday Pre-Ride: Course opens at 7:00 a.m. (last chance to preview)

Warm-Up: Begins 45 minutes before race start, led by coaches

Staging/Line-Up: 10–15 minutes before race time

Race!

Post-Race: Return to the team tent, refuel, and rest

Riders should eat between 90 minutes to 3 hours before their start and stay hydrated throughout the morning.

How do we know race times and laps?

Check the official NICA race flyer for each event. It includes start times, race wave assignments, and number of laps by category. These flyers will be linked on our race info page and shared via TeamSnap when available.

What about awards?

Podium awards (Top 5 in each category) usually happen around 3–4 p.m. after all races are complete and the course has been cleared. If your rider is not in contention for a podium spot, you’re welcome to leave after their race and cooldown.

What happens if my rider gets nervous or wants to skip a race?

Totally normal. Our coaches are experienced in helping riders manage race-day nerves, but no one is ever pressured to race. Riders can attend the event, warm up, and decide whether to start, or just hang out and support teammates.

What are the basic rules?

Whether you’re headed to practice or your first race with the Sharks, here are the essential rules to help riders stay safe, respectful, and ready for anything. These are not exhaustive, all racers MUST read the NICA Handbook prior to racing.

• 1. Helmets On—Always

All riders (and assisting adults) must wear a properly fitted helmet any time they are on a bike—even during warmups or walking their bike at the race venue .

• 2. Controlled Riding & Safe Pace

Riders need to stay in control at all times. No reckless racing, excessive speed, or dangerous behavior on or off the course .

• 3. No Headphones or Earbuds

To stay aware of their surroundings and hear announcements, riders cannot use headphones or earbuds during any ride or race.

• 4. Follow the Trail—No Cutting Corners

Staying on the marked course and not taking shortcuts is required. Cutting the course results in serious time penalties or disqualification.

• 5. Passing Safely

When passing another rider, you must do so safely and clearly, announcing “On your left” or “On your right” before passing.

• 6. Respect the Trails & Environment

The league follows Leave No Trace principles: no skidding, stay on authorized trails, and pack out what you bring in .

• 7. Jerseys Required at Races

Racers must wear their team jersey during events as part of being a visible, unified team member .

• 8. Parent & Coach Expectations

Anyone helping on the course must:

Also, wear a helmet

Do not ride, run, or walk on the race course outside of designated zones

• 9. Consequences for Rule Breaks at Races

NICA enforces penalties based on the rule:

Yellow — warning or 1–5 minute delay

Orange — 5–10 minutes off your time

Red — disqualification or suspension

Officials have final say, but your coach is there to help reinforce safe behavior.

• 10. Lead with Respect

All riders, parents, and coaches agree to follow the NICA Code of Conduct. Treat others with respect, follow directions, and support one another—on the trail and behind the scenes.

For the full breakdown and rule citations, check the official NICA/NICA NY documents:

NICA Handbook (2026 edition) – Student & Parent Rules

NICA Student Athlete Code of Conduct

What kind of support is available during the race?

Coaches will be on course (or stationed nearby) and available to help before and after each race. NICA also provides first aid support and course marshals. Riders are responsible for any bike repairs that might be needed during the race, but if they can’t manage on their own, a coach or official can help, but the team gets a 5-minute penalty. 

Can siblings or family members come?

Absolutely. Families are encouraged to join! Bring chairs, snacks, and anything your family needs to be comfortable for a few hours outdoors.

What’s the team setup like?

We set up a few large team tents and a hangout area near the course with food, tools, and space for riders and their families to hang out. Look for the sharks' trailers and tents when you arrive. 

What if my rider’s bike needs work at the race?

Bikes should be checked and tuned before race weekend, but most issues that come up can usually be handled at the team tents. Our team mechanic Doug Trojan is happy to help fix any mechanical issues that might arise on race day.

Can I help?

Yes, please! We always appreciate:

• Help setting up or breaking down the team tent and trailer

• Bringing food and supplies

• Volunteering for race-day roles (parking, course marshal, etc.)

Volunteer signups for official race roles are posted in each race flyer by NICA NY.