Originally Posted by
benajah
I have wondered, since losing my leg, why USA Cycling has no separate cat for para cyclists (cyclists with a disability such as amputation, MS, brain injury affectin balance, etc). I have asked this question before, years ago, but this year they actually made a different category for MTB for para cycling but not road.
I'm curious about any input as to the reason based upon the following facts:
It is not that USA Cycling does not have a category, it is that most race organizers choose not to organize the events or include them. USAC recognizes the UCI Para categories (see page 214 of the rulebook in how it is applied to National Championships).
An organizer could very easily decide to include Para events in their event if desired. My organization work closely with USA Handcycling to include handcycling events with several of our races. I have also worked several National Championships where Para events have been included. Also just got back from London Paralympics cycling last month, which was cool.
So you may be "barking up the wrong tree" with your questions of "why USA Cycling doesn't do this". The answer is that the tools are there. Its just that Para athletes fall under so many different organizations (USA Pralympics, USA Handcycling, ASABA, etc.) that sometimes there is not a "home" for them.
So why not talk to a race organizer or start thinking about putting on a race yourself?