Yay....TT upgrade questions... - FTW

As mentioned and pointed out TT's do not count for road categorization upgrades in any way. Just like cyclocross races, and track events or mtb don't count for road upgrades....kinda.

As UK mentioned it is all about getting time in close quarters pack riding before allowing you to upgrade on the road. In that case they do say 10 mass start events - or events where you have to rub shoulders. What is unique about this rule is 2 things -
1.they don't say "finishes"....only "starts".
2.They don't overtly spell out that they have to be road specific.

The intent is that you are experienced in handling yourself in a pack. Around here that used to mean that we could get a 5'er to get some starts late in the season and then turn him loose on cyclocross and in the spring they would usually be awarded a 4's upgrade.

Other racing organizing bodies - USAC is just one of them albeit the "official" US sanctioning body when it comes to UCI, Olympic, etc events. Other racing organizations do in fact allow separate categorization of TT events.

As for why would anyone hold a TT under USAC? lots of reasons. 1St - in order for it to be a competition you would need rules and officials. USAC is there to do that. You will also need insurance for your event....USAC does that. That's the point of sanctioning bodies. Not to primarily be a "ranking" system for riders but rather to support events, riders, organizers, and promoters and to help develop the sport. Your payment of a license fee helps to provide that assistance.