OZ Stage Race Rules

We like to keep things simple at the 2026 OZ stage race. Our number one priority is to ensure a fair and safe racing environment for all competitors. However, a race of this scale and uniqueness also requires all competitors to do their part in helping us achieve that goal. Here are a few basic rules of the event, so that we can all enjoy the experience.

RULE #1-A proper helmet is required.

RULE #2-Be courteous.  We make every attempt to ensure a smooth race flow out on course, by sending off race waves based on skill and rider speed. However, there are going to be instances where faster riders come up on slower riders. We ask faster riders to politely call out to the slower rider that they are approaching to overtake them. We also ask that slower riders move out of the way, when possible, to allow the leaders through before continuing with your own race. No bullying, rough riding or foul language will be tolerated.  Any reports or observation of the above, is grounds for immediate DQ and no refund.

RULE #3-No Outside Assistance. A rider cannot receive outside assistance on course from team staff, family or friends. This includes water bottles, food or clothing handouts, or assistance with mechanical issues. A rider may only receive help in the designated aid stations/feed zones on course. We allow 1 team member per rider in the feed zone to keep the congestion in those zones to a minimum. 

*The one exemption to this rule is riders racing in teams may assist one another out on course with tools or food and drink.

RULE # 4-No course cutting. While the course will be well marked, cheaters gonna cheat. To discourage course cutting, we will place intermediate time check sensors on course at undisclosed locations during each stage. Riders who do not pass through these electronic check points will be docked at the race official’s discretion. We also ask that riders police themselves out on course and report any violations to the race officials at the finish.

The course will have a combination of signs, cones, and race tape to mark the course.  ALWAYS keep the confirmation race on your RIGHT side when out in the woods.  This tells you you’re heading in the right direction.  Cones, Arrows, and ground race tape will be at all major intersections as well.

RULE #5 - Team Timing Rules

  • Team members must stay within 2 minutes of each other throughout the race.

  • At the finish, both riders must cross within 2 minutes of one another to avoid a penalty.

Penalties

  • If the time gap between the two riders is more than 2 minutes, a penalty equal to the excess time will be added.

Official Team Time

  • The team’s official time is based on the second rider’s finish time.

  • If there is a gap of more than 2 minutes, add the extra time (beyond 2 minutes) as a penalty.

Examples

  • Team A

    • Rider 1: 1:00

    • Rider 2: 1:03 (3-minute gap → 1-minute penalty)

    • Official time: 1:04

  • Team B

    • Rider 1: 1:02

    • Rider 2: 1:03 (1-minute gap → no penalty)

    • Official time: 1:03

  • Team B wins the stage

Note: If a team member is unable to finish a stage, the team will be recorded as DNF. However, riders may continue to compete in the remaining stages as individuals. Any rider who completes all three stages will be recognized as a finisher, but will not be eligible for podium awards.

RULE #6-Category Call Up’s.  Top 10 riders in their respective category from Thursday’s prologue will be used to set the start grid for stage #1 on Friday. After the top 10, riders will self-seat within their designated wave, behind the Top 10 prologue riders. Stages #2 and #3, call-ups will be sorted based on the leader jerseys.

RULE #7 - Rider Awareness and Safety. All riders must remain alert at all times. Due to the urban nature of the stage race, the course may include pedestrians, motor vehicles, animals, and other potential hazards. While the event organizers make every reasonable effort to promote rider safety, the complexity and layout of the course require riders to exercise caution and assume responsibility for their own safety.

At all road crossings, RULES OF THE ROAD apply. Riders must yield to oncoming traffic unless otherwise directed by a law enforcement officer or authorized race official.

RULE #8 – No littering on course. In fact, just be good humans overall.

RULE #9 -Have Fun. This is #1 in our book. We all share a passion for riding and racing with our friends and that is why we created the OZ Stage race experience. Keep this in mind when racing with us, because there is nothing we are giving away that is worth anyone’s health or safety.