General Rules are followed by
rules for the 50, 100, 200, and 400 solo events
and, finally, the 200 and 400 relay events.
Updated 7/4/2008.

NOTE: No Bib Pickup or Registration on Saturday.

NEW: Support Drivers for Relay Teams

1. Know the BIB number of your team. This is also your printed Vehicle Number.
   After July 9, 2008 it will be available at Registration or on the web site.
2. Pick up the Vehicle Number at registration.
   Place it in the rear, driver-side window during the entire race.
3. Pick up Vehicle Rules/Instructions at registration.
   Keep in vehicle the entire race.
4. Attend the Safety Briefing at registration.

Support vehicles have instructions and numbers this year.
Contact Jim Galanes at jimgalanes@clearwire.net if you cannot do this at Registration on Thursday, July 10, 2008.

2008 Race Rules

For a pdf version of
All Race Rules (13 pages), click HERE
Great Alaska Half Century (2 pages), click HERE.
Great Alaska Century (2 pages), click HERE.
Great Alaska Double Century (2 pages), click HERE.
Fireweed 400 (2 pages), click HERE.
200 and 400 Relay Rules, click HERE.
Support and Pace Vehicles (2 pages), click HERE.

For a Windows doc version of
All Race Rules (13 pages), click HERE
Great Alaska Half Century (2 pages), click HERE.
Great Alaska Century (2 pages), click HERE.
Great Alaska Double Century (2 pages), click HERE.
Fireweed 400 (2 pages), click HERE.
200 and 400 Relay Rules, click HERE.
Support and Pace Vehicles (2 pages), click HERE.

Number Pickup, UMCA Release of Liability Signing,
and Vehicle Inspection will take place at

Kincaid Park Chalet - BIB pickup and sign waiver
9401 West Raspberry Road, Anchorage, Alaska
Thursday ONLY, July 10 from Noon to 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Questions regarding
Number Pickup, Annette Cartier at (907) 272-1933 or cartierkservices@gci.net.
Pace Vehicle Inspection, call Jim Mendenhall at (907) 272-0160.

2008 START TIMES
Noon Friday - 400 Solo - Wave #1
Corrected Error = 12:15 PM Friday - All 400 relays - Wave #2

6:00 AM Saturday - Early Slow Starts, check with timer - Wave #11
6:30 AM Saturday - Early Slow Starts, check with timer - Wave #12
7:00 AM Saturday - All 200 Relays - Wave #3
7:15 AM Saturday - 200 Road Race & tandems - Wave #4
7:30 AM Saturday - 200 solo, nondrafting - Wave #5
10:00 AM Saturday - 100 Road Race & tandems- Alaska STATE CHAMPIONSHIP - Wave #6
10:30 AM Saturday - 100 Solo, nondrafting - Wave #7
10:45 AM Saturday - 50 Road Race & tandems - Wave #8
11:00 AM Saturday - 50 solo and then the Fat Tire division- Wave #9
11:15 AM Saturday - 50 Fat Tire Non-drafter, Non-Competitive - Wave #10


Safety Supersedes Competition
Safety must be the single most important concern of everyone connected with the Fireweed.  The Fireweed motto is: “Safety first, Fun second, and Success third.”In an emergency condition where human life is in jeopardy, all concern should be directed to the injured. If a rule is violated in an emergency situation, the Race Director will make necessary allowances.

Awards
Awards will be given to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place men and women finishers in each of the Fireweed events, provided there are at least five contestants in the event.  If an event has less than five contestants, the race directors will use their discretion as to how many awards will be given for the event.

Certificates will be given to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place Men’s and Women’s age group finishers for the following age groups: under 12, 13-19, 20-29. 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, 80-89.

 

 

For a pdf version of the Rules regarding the 50 mile Event, click HERE.

• Number Pickup and UMCA Release of Liability Signing will take place at Kincaid Park Chalet, 9401 West Raspberry Road, Anchorage, Alaska, on Thursday, July 10, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Questions regarding Number Pickup, call Annette Cartier at (907) 272-1933 or E-mail her at cartierkservices@gci.net.  Click HERE to print waiver.
• In exchange for turning in the UMCA Release of Liability and attending the Pre-Race Meeting, a Rider will receive his/her race number. In order for the Fireweed to be sanctioned by the Ultra Marathon Cycling Association (UMCA), every participant must sign the UMCA Release of Liability. DQ
• Racer and at least one member of the Racer’s Support Crew must attend at one of the Pre-Race Meetings.  Attendance is mandatory.  Support Crew (vehicle driver) is anyone assisting a Racer.  In the last few years, vehicle drivers have posed a threat to the safety of the riders.  The Pre-Race meetings will be held at the Kincaid Park Chalet on Thursday, July 10, at 12:30 PM (noon) and at 7:00 PM. This meeting should not last longer than thirty minutes. DQ
• The Fireweed 50 has three Divisions – Road Race, Solo (including recumbent bicycles), and Fat Tire Bikes. Race starts for these divisions shall be as follows:
 
10:45 AM Saturday– 50 Road Race & Tandems, no aero - Wave #8
11:00 AM Saturday - 50 solo, aero bars allowed - Wave #9
11:15 AM Saturday - 50 Fat Tire Division, non-drafter – no aero bars allowed, Non-Competitive - Wave #10

 
• Riders and their support vehicles must obey all traffic laws. In addition to a time penalty (TP) or disqualification (DQ), you will be ticketed by the State Troupers for disobeying a traffic law.
The State traffic laws are rules that are in effect at all times:
• Riders should ride as far to the right as possible. TP or DQ
• When a shoulder of the highway is maintained in good condition, an operator of a bicycle shall use the shoulder. TP or DQ
• Riders shall give way to the right as far as practicable to a motor vehicle proceeding in the same direction when the driver of the motor vehicle gives an audible signal. TP or DQ
• Racers shall not ride more than two (2) abreast. Riders riding two abreast may not impede traffic. TP or DQ

• A Rider must wear an ANSI approved helmet at all times. The helmet must be properly fastened and not just sitting atop the head. DQ
• Reflective vests are recommended, but are not required. The Fireweed 50 mile course will close Saturday at 9:00 PM. SAG SUPPORT: At 9 PM Saturday, a Race Official van will sweep the course picking up Riders unable to finish by 9:00 PM.
• For Riders choosing the Road Race (riding in a pace line), unless it is unsafe to do so, the Riders must observe the following pace line procedure: all pace lines will proceed in a clockwise direction with riders moving to the front of the pace line advancing on the left and then moving right to fall to the back of the pace line.  When safe and practical, the pace line should stay to the right of the rumble strip.  If a Rider decides to drop back on the highway side of the pace line, before dropping back on the left, the Rider must first determine with the help of his pace line members that no vehicles are approaching from the rear of the pace line. There must be communication between the pace line members before anyone may drop back on the highway side of the pace line. In the last five years, the Department of Public Safety have observed and received reports from truckers and other motorists that some Riders swung out unsafely into the highway portion of the road. We do not want to lose the permit for the Fireweed.  A TP will be assessed to all Riders in the pace line for the first infraction of this rule, and all Riders in the pace line will be DQ’d for the second infraction.
• The Fireweed, as any bike race of this sort, has the potential for many dangerous traffic situations. Drivers and Riders must exercise caution at all times. A Pace Vehicle* is not allowed. A Support Vehicle* may assist a Rider leapfrogging along the course, but the parking of vehicles or the congregating of spectators on the shoulder will not be allowed by the State Troopers. Vehicle parking and the congregating of spectators should be at least thirty feet off the highway or in the pullouts along the highway. Use caution at all times, particularly when parking and moving back into the roadway. Contact between Riders and a vehicle in motion is not allowed. A Rider may not be passed things to or from a vehicle. TP or DQ
• Riders in the Road Race and the Fat Tire Divisions shall not use aero-handlebars. Riders in the Solo Division may use aero-handlebars.
• If a Rider abandons, he/she is responsible for notifying a Race Official, which may be accomplished by telling a Race Official on the Course or at Sheep Mountain Lodge or by calling (907)332-3395. Riders who abandon are responsible to find their own transportation back to the start.
• The 50 mile has only one Aid Station that is located at the paved pullout on the north side of the highway at Mile 135.9 (Sheep Mountain Lodge is at Mile 113.5.). It is also the turnaround.  At the turnaround, all riders must obey the direction of the Race Officials.  Riders must slow or stop and wait for a safe and clear opportunity to cross the road.  The Officials will tell you when it is safe for you to cross the road. Failure to obey the Race Officials will result in immediate disqualification. This may result in a slight disadvantage or advantage to some racers, but safety is the primary consideration. The Aid Station will have the following: water, sports drinks, (depending on the weather - coffee, tea, and hot chocolate), fresh fruit, dried fruit snacks, energy bars, pretzels, and other grab-and go sport-foods.  A crew of volunteers, including a Bike Mechanic, will be available to assist you with anything you may need and to get you rolling again.
• There will be portable toilet(s) at the Aid Station.  Riders shall conduct all "private" matters out-of-sight and off the paved highway.  Riders shall not use private driveways along the highway for this purpose. In the last few years, we have had complaints from property owners that Riders urinated and defecated in their driveways. TP
• A Rider may a toss water bottle to the roadside provided a person in a Support Vehicle or at an Aid Station is available to pick up the water bottle. At no time shall Riders discard wrappers on the highway. TP or DQ
• Penalty for violation of the rules is either a Time Penalty (TP) or Disqualification (DQ). Time penalties for traffic law violations and/or rule violations will be added to the racer’s overall time at the finish line. 1st offense - 15 minutes; 2nd offense – 30 minutes; 3rd offense – Disqualification. TP’s or DQ’s shall be administered at the time of the occurrence. Notwithstanding the above, a Rider will be disqualified on the second violation involving the drafting rule.

* Fireweed 50 rule for Support Vehicle
1. A Support Vehicle is defined as a motorized vehicle with two or more wheels which is used to transport people and/or equipment necessary for use by a competitor.
2. All Support Vehicles must be properly registered in Alaska and carry at least the minimum insurance required by law by the state of registration.
3. All Support Vehicle operators must possess a valid driver's license appropriate for the vehicle being operated.
4. If motorcycles or motor-driven cycles are used as Support Vehicles, appropriate legal helmets must be worn at all times by the driver and any passengers, regardless of state or local regulations. Bicycle helmets are not legal when riding a motorcycle. Motorcycle operators must have motorcycle endorsements (i.e., special licenses), as required by the State of Alaska.
5. Pace Vehicles are not allowed in the 50-mile events. A Pace Vehicle is defined as any vehicle that is driving in front of the Rider or shadowing the Rider by following directly behind the cyclist, at the speed of the Rider.
6. At least one member of the Racer’s Support Crew (vehicle driver) must attend one of the Pre-Race Meetings

 

This is a Century Ride for everyone, but it is also the Alaska State Championship Century for Road Racers.
For a pdf version of the Rules regarding the 100 mile Event, click HERE.
 
• Number Pickup and UMCA Release of Liability Signing will take place at Kincaid Park Chalet, 9401 West Raspberry Road, Anchorage, Alaska, on Thursday, July 10, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Questions regarding Number Pickup, call Annette Cartier at (907) 272-1933 or email her at cartierkservices@gci.net.
• In exchange for turning in the UMCA Release of Liability and attending the Pre-Race Meeting, a Rider will receive his/her race number. In order for the Fireweed to be sanctioned by the Ultra Marathon Cycling Association (UMCA), every participant must sign the UMCA Release of Liability. DQ Click HERE to print a waiver.
• Racer’s Attendance at one of the Pre-Race Meetings is mandatory. The Pre-Race meetings will be held at the Kincaid Park Chalet on Thursday, July 10, at 12:30 PM (noon) and at 7:00 PM. This meeting should not last longer than thirty minutes. DQ
• The Fireweed 100 has two Divisions – Road Race and Solo (including recumbent bicycles). Race starts for these divisions shall be as follows:

10:00 AM Saturday - 100 Road Race (no aero bars) & tandems-
10:30 AM Saturday - 100 Solo (including recumbent bicycles), nondrafting (no aero  bars allowed) - Wave #7

• Riders must obey all traffic laws.  In addition to a time penalty (TP) or disqualification (DQ), you will be ticketed by the State Troupers for disobeying a traffic law. 
The traffic laws are rules in effect at all times:
• Riders should ride as far to the right as possible. TP or DQ
• When a shoulder of the highway is maintained in good condition, an operator of a bicycle shall use the shoulder. TP or DQ
• Riders shall give way to the right as far as practicable to a motor vehicle proceeding in the same direction when the driver of the motor vehicle gives an audible signal. TP or DQ
• Racers shall not ride more than two (2) abreast. Riders riding two abreast may not impede traffic. TP or DQ

• A Rider must wear an ANSI approved helmet at all times. The helmet must be properly fastened and not just sitting atop the head. DQ
• Reflective vests are recommended, but are not required. The Fireweed 100 mile course will close Saturday at 9:00 PM. SAG SUPPORT: At that time, a Race Official van will sweep the course picking up Riders unable to finish by 9:00 PM.
• For Riders choosing the Drafting Division (riding in a pace line), unless it is unsafe to do so, the Riders must observe the following pace line procedure: all pace lines will proceed in a clockwise direction with riders moving to the front of the pace line advancing on the left and then moving right to fall to the back of the pace line.  When safe and practical, the pace line should stay to the right of the rumble strip.  If a Rider decides to drop back on the on the left (the highway side) of the pace line, before dropping back on the left, the Rider must first determine with the help of his pace line members, that no vehicles are approaching from the rear of the pace line. There must be communication between the pace line members before anyone may drop back on the highway side of the pace line. In the last five years, the Department of Public Safety have observed and received reports from truckers and other motorists that some Riders swung out unsafely into the highway portion of the road. We do not want to lose the permit for the Fireweed.  A TP will be assessed to all Riders in the pace line for the first infraction of this rule, and all Riders in the pace line will be DQ’d for the second infraction.
• The Fireweed, as any bike race of this sort, has the potential for many dangerous traffic situations. Drivers and Riders must exercise caution at all times. Vehicle parking and the congregating of spectators should be at least thirty feet off the highway or in the pullouts along the highway. Use caution at all times, particularly when parking and moving back into the roadway. Support Crew (vehicle drivers) cannot assist Riders in the 100 mile event except in an emergency situation. TP or DQ
• Riders in the Drafting Division shall not use aero-handlebars; Riders in the Solo Division may use aero-handlebars.
• If a Rider abandons, he/she is responsible for notifying a Race Official, which may be accomplished by telling a Race Official on the Course or at Sheep Mountain Lodge or by calling (907) 332-3395. Riders who abandon are responsible to find their own transportation back to the start.
• Riders cannot accept assistance from anyone along the route, except from Aid Station Officials.  This rule, however, will not be effect in an emergency situation.  NOTE: THIS Rule IS DIFFERENT THAN THE RULES THAT APPLY TO THE 50, 200, and 400 DIVISIONS.
All Aid Stations are neutral areas.  Riders cannot significantly advance their position in the feed zone.  It is the intent of this rule to prohibit attacks when riders are slowing down to get feed or water.  Racing can resume 500 meters past the Aid Station.  However, there is no obligation on any racer to stop if the peloton decides to stop.  Any rider who needs to stop can do so at the risk the peloton will attack unless there is a unanimous consent among all riders in the peloton to stop.
 
At the turnaround, all riders must obey the direction of the Race officials.  Riders must slow or stop and wait for a safe and clear opportunity to cross the road.  The Race Officials will tell you when it is safe for you to cross the road.  Failure to obey the Race Officials will result in immediate disqualification.  This may result in a slight disadvantage or advantage to some racers, but safety is the primary consideration. 
This year there are three aid stations in the 100 Mile Event, which aid stations are all on the right side of the highway at the following locations:
1) Approximately Mile  26.2 (Milepost 139.7) – fully staffed aid station. 
(2) Mile 48.5 (Milepost 162.3) – fully staffed aid station. This aid station is also the turnaround.
(3) Approximately Mile 74 (Milepost 135.9) – fully staffed station. 
The three Aid Stations will have the following: water, sports drinks, (depending on the weather - coffee, tea, and hot chocolate), fresh fruit, dried fruit snacks, energy bars, pretzels, and other grab-and-go sports foods.  At these aids stations, a crew of volunteers will be available to assist you with anything you may need and to get you rolling again. Note: Bike mechanics are only available at Aid Stations along the 100-mile bike course.
• There will be portable toilet(s) at the Aid Stations.  Riders shall conduct all "private" matters out-of-sight and off the paved highway.  Riders shall not use private driveways along the highway for this purpose. In the last few years, we have had complaints from property owners that Riders urinated and defecated in their driveways. TP
• A Rider shall not toss water bottle or candy wrappers to the roadside, except at the Aid Stations.  TP or DQ
• Penalty for violation of the rules is either a Time Penalty (TP) or Disqualification (DQ). Time penalties for traffic law violations and/or rule violations will be added to the racer’s overall time at the finish line. 1st offense - 15 minutes; 2nd offense – 30 minutes; 3rd offense – Disqualification. TP’s or DQ’s shall be administered at the time of the occurrence. Notwithstanding the above, a Rider will be disqualified on the second violation involving the drafting rule.
• No Support or Pace vehicles. 100 Mile Riders may only obtain support at Aids Stations; otherwise, 100 Mile Riders are self-supported.

For pdf versions of the 200 Mile Solo and Road Race Events, click HERE.

• Number Pickup and UMCA Release of Liability Signing will take place at Kincaid Park Chalet, 9401 West Raspberry Road, Anchorage, Alaska, on Thursday, July 10, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Questions regarding Number Pickup, call Annette Cartier at (907) 272-1933 or email her at cartierkservices@gci.net.  Click HERE to print a waiver.
• In exchange for turning in the UMCA Release of Liability and attending the Pre-Race Meeting, a Rider will receive his/her race number. In order for the Fireweed to be sanctioned by the Ultra Marathon Cycling Association (UMCA), every participant must sign the UMCA Release of Liability. DQ
• The Racer and at least one member of the Racer’s Support Crew must attend one of the Pre-Race Meetings.  Attendance is mandatory.  Support Crew (vehicle driver) is anyone assisting a Racer.  In the last few years, vehicle drivers have posed a threat to the safety of the riders. The Pre-Race meetings will be held at the Kincaid Park Chalet on Thursday, July 10, at 12:30 PM (noon) and at 7:00 PM. This meeting should not last longer than thirty minutes. DQ
• The Fireweed 200 (the solo 200) has two divisions – Road Race and Solo (including recumbent bicycles). Saturday race starts for these divisions shall be as follows:
6:00 AM Saturday – Early Slow Starts, check with timer - Wave #1
6:30 AM Saturday - Early Slow Starts, check with timer - Wave #2
7:15 AM Saturday - 200 Road Race & tandems - Wave #4
7:30 AM Saturday - 200 solo, nondrafting - Wave #5


• Riders and their support vehicles must obey all traffic laws. In addition to a time penalty (TP) or disqualification (DQ), you will be ticketed by the State Troupers for disobeying a traffic law. 
The traffic laws are rules that are in effect at all times:
• Riders should ride as far to the right as possible. TP or DQ
• When a shoulder of the highway is maintained in good condition, an operator of a bicycle shall use the shoulder. TP or DQ
• Riders shall give way to the right as far as practicable to a motor vehicle proceeding in the same direction when the driver of the motor vehicle gives an audible signal. TP or DQ
• Racers shall not ride more than two (2) abreast. Riders riding two abreast may not impede traffic. TP or DQ
• A Rider must wear an ANSI approved helmet at all times. The helmet must be properly fastened and not just sitting atop the head. DQ
• Reflective vests are recommended, but are not required.
• Course Closer: The 200-mile course will close Saturday at 12:00 PM. SAG SUPPORT: At 11:00 PM, a Race Official van will begin sweeping the course to pick up Riders unable to finish by 12:00 Midnight.
• Any Rider who has not passed River Lodge by 9:00 PM must stop at Tiekel River Lodge; the Course Sweeper will come to Tiekel River Lodge to pick up the Riders at Tiekel River Lodge.
• For Riders choosing the Road Race Division (riding in a pace line), unless it is unsafe to do so, all pace lines will proceed in a clockwise direction with riders moving to the front of the pace line advancing on the left and then moving right to fall to the back of the pace line.  When safe and practical, the pace line should stay to the right of the rumble strip.  If a Rider decides to drop back on the on the left (the highway side) of the pace line, before dropping back on the left, the Rider must first determine with the help of his pace line members, that no vehicles are approaching from the rear of the pace line. There must be communication between the pace line members before anyone  drops back on the highway side of the pace line. In the last five years, the Department of Public Safety have observed and received reports from truckers and other motorists that some Riders swung out unsafely into the highway portion of the road. We do not want to lose the permit for the Fireweed.  A TP will be assessed to all Riders in the pace line for the first infraction of this rule, and all Riders in the pace line will be DQ’d for the second infraction.
• The Fireweed, as any bike race of this sort, has the potential for many dangerous traffic situations. Drivers and Riders must exercise caution at all times. A Pace Vehicle* is not allowed. A Support Vehicle* may assist a Rider leapfrogging along the course, but the parking of vehicles or the congregating of spectators on the shoulder will not be allowed by the State Troopers. Vehicle parking and the congregating of spectators should be at least thirty feet off the highway or in the pullouts along the highway. Use caution at all times, particularly when parking and moving back into the roadway. Contact between Riders and a vehicle in motion is not allowed. A Rider may not be passed things from a vehicle. TP or DQ
• Riders in the Drafting Division shall not use aero-handlebars; Riders in the Non-Drafting Division may use aero-handlebars.
• If a Rider abandons, he/she is responsible for notifying a Race Official, which may be accomplished by telling a Race Official on the Course or at Sheep Mountain Lodge or by calling (907) 332-3395). Riders who abandon are responsible to find their own transportation back to the start.
• The 200 Mile Riders have six Aid Stations, some of which aid stations are fully or partially staffed.  (Do not use the first Aid Station on the left side of road.)  The 200 Mile Aids Stations are located as follows:
(1) Mile 27.8 (Milepost 141.3) – fully staffed aid station, MECHANIC; used by 100 and 200 going out. Right side of road.
(2) Mile 48.5 (Milepost 162.3) - fully staffed aid station, MECHANIC; right side of road for 100-turn-around and 200 going out.
(3) Mile 73.5 (Milepost 187) Caribou Hotel in Glennallen (907) 822-3711- aid station;
(4) Mile 96.9 Grizzly Pizza & Gifts (907) 822-3828, Milepost V92.7 of Richardson) – aid station;
(5) Mile133.6 Tiekel River Lodge (907) 822-3259 Mile V56 of Richardson Highway – convenience store.  This is the only aid station on the left side of the highway;
(6) Mile 163.8 Worthington Glacier Milepost V29 of Richardson Highway – partially staffed aid station.
Mile 196 at Valdez is the 200 mile finish and 400 turn-around. Food, drink, and assistance are available at the finish.
 
• Fully staffed Aid Stations The Aid Station will have the following: water, sports drinks, (depending on the weather - coffee, tea, and hot chocolate), fresh fruit, dried fruit snacks, energy bars, pretzels, and other grab-and-go foods. A crew of volunteers, including a Bike Mechanic, will be available to assist you with anything you may need and to get you rolling again.
 Partially staffed Aid Stations have everything listed above, but NO mechanic.
• At the fully staffed aid stations , Grizzly Gifts and Pizza, and Tiekel River Lodge, the Riders may use the portable toilets and bathroom facilities. Otherwise, Riders shall conduct all "private" matters out-of-sight and off the paved highway, but they shall not use private driveways along the highway for this purpose. Last year, we had complaints from property owners that Riders had urinated and defecated in their driveways.
• A Rider may a toss water bottle to the roadside provided this is done safely, and a person in a Support Vehicle or at an Aid Station is available to pick up the water bottle. At no time shall a Rider discard wrappers on the highway. TQ or DQ
• Penalty for violation of the rules is either a Time Penalty (TP) or Disqualification (DQ). Time penalties for traffic law violations and/or rule violations will be added to the racer’s overall time at the finish line. 1st offense - 15 minutes; 2nd offense – 30 minutes; 3rd offense – Disqualification. TP’s or DQ’s shall be administered by a Race Official at the time of the occurrence. Notwithstanding the above, a Rider will be disqualified on the second violation involving the drafting rule.
• Pace Vehicles are not allowed in the 200-mile events. A pace vehicle is defined as any vehicle that is driving in front of the Rider or shadowing the Rider by following directly behind the cyclist, at the speed of the Rider.
* Support and Pace Vehicles
1. A Support Vehicle is defined as a motorized vehicle with two or more wheels which is used to transport people and/or equipment necessary for use by a competitor.
2. All Support Vehicles must be properly registered and carry at least the minimum insurance required by law by the state of registration.
3. All Support Vehicle operators must possess a valid driver's license appropriate for the vehicle being operated.
4. If motorcycles or motor-driven cycles are used as Support Vehicles, appropriate legal helmets must be worn at all times by the driver and any passengers, regardless of state or local regulations. Bicycle helmets are not legal when riding a motorcycle. Motorcycle operators must have motorcycle endorsements (i.e., special licenses), as required by the State of Alaska.
5. At least one member of the Racer’s Support Crew (vehicle driver) must attend one of the Pre-Race Meetings.

 

 

The following Rules apply to the 400 Solo only.
The 200 and 400 relay event rules are further down this page.

For a pdf version of the 400 Solo Rules, click HERE.

• Number Pickup, UMCA Release of Liability Signing, and Vehicle Inspection will take place at Kincaid Park Chalet, 9401 West Raspberry Road, Anchorage, Alaska, on Thursday, July 10, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Questions regarding Number Pickup, call Annette Cartier at (907) 272-1933 or email her at cartierkservices@gci.net. Questions regarding Pace Vehicle Inspection, call Jim Mendenhall at (907) 272-0160.  Note: to get your number, you must give us “signed” waivers by all of the members of your crew.  These waivers may be mailed in ahead of time or you may give them to us when you pick up your number.  You may not do this electronically (sorry).  No waivers, no number.  In order for the Fireweed to be sanctioned by the Ultra Marathon Cycling Association (UMCA), every participant must sign the UMCA Release of Liability. Click HERE to print a waiver.
• DQ Attendance at a Pre-Race Meeting is mandatory. You and at least one member of your crew must attend the meeting. Support Crew (vehicle driver) is anyone assisting a Racer.  In the last few years, vehicle drivers have posed a threat to the safety of the riders.Pre-Race Meetings will be held at the Kincaid Chalet on Thursday, July 10, at 12:30 PM (noon) and at 7:00 PM. This meeting should not last longer than thirty minutes. DQ
• The Fireweed 400 only has a Solo division (including recumbent bicycles).
• The Fireweed 400 starts at Noon Friday - 400 Solo (aero bars allowed)  - Wave #1
• Riders and their pace and support vehicles must obey all traffic laws.   In addition to a time penalty (TP) or disqualification (DQ), you will be ticketed by the State Troupers for disobeying a traffic law.
The State traffic laws are rules that are in effect at all times:
• Riders should ride as far to the right as possible. TP or DQ
• When a shoulder of the highway is maintained in good condition, an operator of a bicycle shall use the shoulder. TP or DQ
• Riders shall give way to the right as far as practicable to a motor vehicle proceeding in the same direction when the driver of the motor vehicle gives an audible signal. TP or DQ
• If a Rider abandons, he/she is responsible for notifying a Race Official, which may be accomplished by telling a Race Official on the Course or at Sheep Mountain Lodge or by calling (907) 332-3395. Riders who abandon are responsible to find their own transportation back to the start
• A Rider may a toss water bottle to the roadside provided this is done safely, and a person in a Support/Pace Vehicle or at an Aid Station is available to pick up the water bottle. At no time shall a Rider discard wrappers on the highway. TQ or DQ
• Protests by a Rider must be submitted immediately after the race and will be ruled on by the Race Jury. If a rider believes that a race official or the Race Director has made a decision that a) violated the rules and b) is unfair to the rider then the rider may appeal the decision to the Race Jury. The Race Director shall select the members of the Race Jury, who will be composed of three unbiased Race Officials. The members of the jury shall not have been involved in the decision being protested. The decision of the Race Jury is final unless the decision affects the rider’s qualifying for RAAM, in which cease the rider may appeal to the UMCA.
• Riders may not be driven up the course except for emergencies. The Rider must then be returned to the point where the Rider last left the route to begin riding again.
A Rider may proceed on foot along the Fireweed route as long as the bicycle is present (carried, dragged, or pushed). A Rider separated from his bicycle may not proceed along the race route, but may travel backward by any means along the route. TP or DQ
• Riders must wear a properly fastened ANSI-approved helmet at all times. DQ
Riders may not receive any type of push-off from another person or vehicle. TP or DQ
• Riders may not receive pacing of any form.
• Fireweed competitors may ride side by side to greet each other for a maximum of 2 minutes. TP or DQ
• Drafting is never allowed except for the first few miles under yellow flag conditions. TP or DQ
• Bicycles ridden at night (midnight to 5:00 a.m.) must be equipped with a front light visible and operating from 100 meters (300ft.) and steady-state (not-blinking) rear red light or incandescent red light visible from 150 meters (500ft.). TP or DQ
Riders and their pace vehicles must travel as a single unit under night riding conditions (midnight to 5:00 a.m.)  Riders and their pace vehicles must travel together in and out of Valdez, and Riders shall not depart the check-in station in Valdez without the pace vehicles following the Riders.

• All Riders must wear reflective vests at night (midnight to 5:00 a.m.).
• Fireweed 400 Riders may use any Aid Station that is open, including those on Saturday morning for the 50 and 100 mile events, but should plan to be self-supported.  In other words, the Fireweed 400 Rider should bring the food and drink that he/she intends to use.
Riders shall conduct all “private” matters out-of-sight and off the paved highway, but shall not use private driveways along the highway for this purpose.  We have had complaints from property owners that Riders had urinated and defecated in their driveways.

• Race Officials will be stationed along the course at the aid stations and/or will patrol the course in marked vehicles.
• Penalty for violation of the rules is either a Time Penalty (TP) or Disqualification (DQ). Time penalties for traffic law violations and/or rule violations will be added to the racer’s overall time at the finish line. 1st offense - 15 minutes; 2nd offense – 30 minutes; 3rd offense – DQ. Race Officials will administer penalties at the time of the infraction. A warning does not have to be given before a penalty can be assessed.
It is every Rider’s responsibility to make sure that the members of his or her Crew are receiving sleep necessary for safe operation of a motor vehicle. If a Rider does not have the necessary manpower to safely drive the vehicles, the Rider will be detained until the Crew can safely support the Rider. If a driver has become too sleepy, he or she must relinquish the driving responsibility. If no one is awake enough to drive, the race must stop until a crew member has obtained adequate sleep. TP or DQ
Crews should observe these suggestions: Trade off driving duties as often as possible. Always have two wide-awake crew members at night. Watch for drunk drivers. Obey all traffic laws. Watch for traffic approaching from the rear. Watch particularly at stops. If you see another Rider or Crew behaving in unsafe manner, please say something to that Crew and to a Race Official. A Race Official may prohibit a Rider from continuing for safety reasons.

 
* Support and Pace Vehicles
1. A Support Vehicle is defined as a motorized vehicle with two or more wheels which is used to transport people and/or equipment necessary for use by a competitor.
2. All Support Vehicles must be properly registered and carry at least the minimum insurance required by law by the state of registration.
3. All Support Vehicle operators must possess a valid driver's license appropriate for the vehicle being operated.
4. If motorcycles or motor-driven cycles are used as Support Vehicles, appropriate legal helmets must be worn at all times by the driver and any passengers, regardless of state or local regulations. Bicycle helmets are not legal when riding a motorcycle. Motorcycle operators must have motorcycle endorsements (i.e., special licenses), as required by the State of Alaska. See Rules for Support Vehicles for the 400 Solo and 200 and 400 Relay.
5. At least one member of the Racer’s Support Crew (vehicle driver) must attend one of the Pre-Race Meetings.

 

200 & 400 RELAY RIDER RULES
and the

Aero bars are allowed on all relays and teams.


For a pdf version of the Rules regarding the 200 & 400Relay Event, click HERE.

• Number Pickup and UMCA Release of Liability Signing will take place at Kincaid Park Chalet, 9401 West Raspberry Road, Anchorage, Alaska, on Thursday, July 10, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Questions regarding Number Pickup, call Annette Cartier at (907) 272-1933 or email her at cartierkservices@gci.net. Questions regarding Pace Vehicle Inspection, call Jim Mendenhall at (907) 272-0160.  Note: to get your number, you must give us “signed” waivers by all of the members of your crew.  These waivers may be mailed in ahead of time or you may give them to us when you pick up your number.  You may not do this electronically (sorry).  No waivers, no number.  In order for the Fireweed to be sanctioned by the Ultra Marathon Cycling Association (UMCA), every participant must sign the UMCA Release of Liability. Click HERE to print a waiver.
•  Attendance at a Pre-Race Meeting is mandatory. The Relay Riders and at least one member of the Riders’ Support Crew must attend one of the Pre-Race Meetings.  Attendance is mandatory.  Support Crew (vehicle driver) is anyone assisting a Racer.  In the last few years, vehicle drivers have posed a threat to the safety of the riders. Pre-Race Meetings will be held at the Kincaid Chalet on Thursday, July 10, at 12:30 PM (noon) and at 7:00 PM. This meeting should not last longer than thirty minutes. DQ

• Race start times for these divisions shall be as follows:
Start times on Friday
3:15 PM - All 400 relays - Wave #2 on Friday
Start times on Saturday
7:00 AM (Saturday) - All 200 RELAYS

• • Riders must obey all traffic laws.  In addition to a time penalty (TP) or disqualification (DQ), you will be ticketed by the State Troupers for disobeying a traffic law. 
The traffic laws are rules in effect at all times:
• Riders should ride as far to the right as possible. TP or DQ
• When a shoulder of the highway is maintained in good condition, an operator of a bicycle shall use the shoulder. TP or DQ
• Riders shall give way to the right as far as practicable to a motor vehicle proceeding in the same direction when the driver of the motor vehicle gives an audible signal. TP or DQ
• Racers shall not ride more than two (2) abreast. Riders riding two abreast may not impede traffic. TP or DQ
• A Rider must wear an ANSI approvedhelmet at all times. The helmet must be properly fastened and not just sitting atop the head. DQ
• If a Rider abandons, he/she is responsible for notifying a Race Official, which may be accomplished by telling a Race Official on the Course or at Sheep Mountain Lodge or by calling (907) 332-3395. Riders who abandon are responsible to find their own transportation ack to the start.
• If an Aid Stations is open, any Relay Rider may use the Aid Station.  However, Fireweed Relay Riders should plan to be self-supported.  Especially, the Fireweed 400 Rider should bring the food and drink that he/she intends to use because aid stations are not open Friday.

• Riders shall conduct all "private" matters out-of-sight and off the paved highway, but they shall not use private driveways along the highway for this purpose. Last year, we had complaints from property owners that Riders had urinated and defecated in their driveways.
• A Rider may a toss water bottle to the roadside provided this is done safely, and a person in a Support Vehicle or at an Aid Station is available to pick up the water bottle. At no time shall a Rider discard wrappers on the highway. TQ or DQ
• Bicycles ridden at night (midnight to 5:00 a.m.) by the 400 mile Relay Team Riders must be equipped with a front light visible and operating from 100 meters (300ft.) and steady-state (not-blinking) rear red light or incandescent red light visible from 150 meters (500ft.). TP or DQ
• All 400 mile Relay Team Riders must wear reflective vests at night (midnight to 5:00 a.m.).
Reflective vests are recommended for 200-mile Riders, but are not required.
• Course Closer: The 200-mile course will close Saturday at 12:00 PM. SAG SUPPORT: At 11:00 PM, a Race Official van will begin sweeping the course to pick up Riders unable to finish by 12:00 AM (Midnight).
• Any 200 Rider (and 200 Relay Team) who has not passed Tiekel River Lodge by 9:00 PM must stop at Tiekel River Lodge. The Course Sweeper will come to Tiekel River Lodge to pick up the Riders at Tiekel River Lodge.
400 Relay Riders and their pace vehicles must travel as a single unit under night riding conditions (midnight to 5:00 a.m.).  Riders and their pace vehicles must travel together in and out of Valdez, and Riders shall not depart the check-in station in Valdez without the pace vehicles following the Riders.

• One, two, three, or four riders may cycle at any time. Drafting is permitted within the same team, but not between rival teams. However, a temporary ban on drafting could be imposed by the Troopers or Race Officials if the team of riders creates undue traffic problems that could be remedied by having only one rider on the road.
• There are no requirements as to how much time or how many miles each person can ride.
• If a team member gets hurt or cannot ride, no substitutions are allowed. Only one rider has to finish. This means that the rest of the riders can drop out.
• A Team Relay Rider may proceed on foot along the Fireweed route as long as the bicycle is present (carried, dragged, or pushed). A Team Relay Rider separated from his bicycle may not proceed along the race route, but may travel backward by any means along the route. TP or DQ
• Riders may not receive any type of push-off from another person or vehicle. TP or DQ
• In a rider exchange, the new Relay Rider must overlap wheels with the Relay Rider, he/she is replacing. Relay Riders may make a rolling exchange at cycling speed and ride side by side. The new Relay Rider then accelerates to begin their riding section while the old Relay Rider stops.
Rival Relay Riders may ride side by side to greet each other for a maximum of 2 minutes. TP or DQ
• Race Officials will be stationed along the course at the aid stations and/or will patrol the course in marked vehicles.
• Penalty for violation of the rules is either a Time Penalty (TP) or Disqualification (DQ). Time penalties for traffic law violations and/or rule violations will be added to the racer’s overall time at the finish line. 1st offense - 15 minutes; 2nd offense – 30 minutes; 3rd offense – DQ. Race Officials will administer penalties at the time of the infraction. A warning does not have to be given before a penalty can be assessed. Penalties for rule violations will be imposed to the entire Relay Team, not just to the persons responsible.
* Support and Pace Vehicles
1. A Support Vehicle is defined as a motorized vehicle with two or more wheels which is used to transport people and/or equipment necessary for use by a competitor.
2. All Support Vehicles must be properly registered and carry at least the minimum insurance required by law by the state of registration.
3. All Support Vehicle operators must possess a valid driver's license appropriate for the vehicle being operated.
4. If motorcycles or motor-driven cycles are used as Support Vehicles, appropriate legal helmets must be worn at all times by the driver and any passengers, regardless of state or local regulations. Bicycle helmets are not legal when riding a motorcycle. Motorcycle operators must have motorcycle endorsements (i.e., special licenses), as required by the State of Alaska. See Rules for Support Vehicles for the 400 Solo and 200 and 400 Relay.
5. At least one member of the Racer’s Support Crew (vehicle driver) must attend one of the Pre-Race Meetings.

RULES FOR SUPPORT AND PACE VEHICLES
FOR THE 400 SOLO, AND 200 AND 400 RELAY

For a pdf version of the Rules for Support and Pace Vehicles, click HERE.

At least one member of the Racer’s Support Crew (vehicle driver) must attend one of the Pre-Race Meetings.   Attendance is mandatory.  Support Crew (vehicle driver) is anyone assisting a Racer.  In the last few years, vehicle drivers have posed a threat to the safety of the riders. 

• A motorized vehicle wider than 78" may never be used to follow the racer. DQ
The ideal Pace and Support Vehicle are cars, minivans, or SUVs. RVs, Hummers, fifteen passenger vans regardless of their width, and motor homes are not allowed as Support or Pace Vehicles. Relay Teams shall not use any of the above large vehicles to make rider exchanges. 
Follow vehicles may not pull a trailer. DQ
Motorcycles may be used to support if a racer also has a four-wheeled support vehicle. A racer may be followed at night, 12 PM to 5 AM, by a motorcycle instead of a vehicle.
• We encourage only one support vehicle for solo racers and two support vehicles for four person teams.
• All support vehicles must obey the traffic laws of the State of Alaska. All support vehicles must have the minimum requirements of property damage and personal injury liability insurance for the State of Alaska. Proof of insurance policies must be submitted to the Race Official at vehicle inspection prior to the race. All support vehicle operators must possess a valid operator's license for the vehicle being operated. DQ

PACE VEHICLE EQUIPMENT
1. One amber (not red) flashing light mounted on the far left (driver side) of the roof visible only from the rear (duct tape the front of the flashing yellow light). The pace vehicle must use the flashing roof light at all times when following the racer. In Anchorage, these lights are available at auto supply stores and RV rental lots. DQ
2. CAUTION BICYCLE AHEAD sign. Available at Rainbow Racing System, www.rainbowracing.com, or may be handmade on white adhesive paper or white heavy card stock with red or orange letters 4" - 6" high. DQ
3. Rear reflective equilateral (equal sided) "slow moving vehicle" triangle having a minimum height of 12" with a red or orange reflective border not less than 1.75" in width. Available in Anchorage at Warning Lites, auto parts stores, or RV rental lots. Attach to rear of vehicle if following racer. Remove this sign when not following racer. DQ

SUPPORT CREW RULES FOR THE 400 SOLO, AND 200 AND 400 RELAY
1. The minimum number of support crew members is:
(a) 400-mile solo: at least 2; Pace vehicle behind rider 12 PM to 4:30 AM.
(b) 400-mile relay, 4 person, 1 vehicle: none required
(c) 400-mile relay, 4 person, 2+ vehicles: at least 1 per vehicle
(d) 400-mile relay, 2 person: at least 1
(e) 200-mile solo: none required
(f) 200-mile relay, 4 person: none required
(g) 200-mile relay, 2 person: none required
2. There are no restrictions on the maximum number of support crew members.
A Support Crew Person is anyone who actively assists the Rider in any manner on a continuous basis for a given block of time. The Race Director will make the determination as to whether or not such a person is a crew under these rules. The Riders are accountable for the behavior of the Crew. DQ
All Support Crew Members must have signed and agreed to the terms in the UMCA Release of liability. In order for the Fireweed to be sanctioned by the Ultra Marathon Cycling (UMCA), every participant must sign the UMCA Release of Liability. DQ
Riders may add crew at any time during the race provided the new crew member(s) signs the UMCA Release of Liability and immediately notify a Race Official.
One Crew Member will be designated Crew Captain and will speak for the Crew and Rider(s) in reporting problems, suggestions, or other information to Race Officials.
3. A Crew Member may offer assistance to any Rider or Crew at any time.
4. The Pace Vehicle may follow the Rider during the day light hours.
The Pace Vehicle and the Rider(s) shall become a single entity under night riding conditions, and a pace vehicle must be directly behind the Rider(s). Riders shall not proceed beyond the support vehicle lights during the night, even when displaying legal required bike lights. Night riding is defined as the time between 12 midnight and 5:00 AM. 400 mile Riders and the Pace Vehicles must travel together in and out of Valdez.  The Riders cannot leave the check-in station in Valdez without the Pace Vehicles being behind the Riders. TP or DQ
5. Traveling alongside a rider for handing off food and supplies to the Rider is NOT permitted. Traveling along side a Rider to exchange information is permitted, limited to 1 minute per exchange and 3 times per hour. TP or DQ
When traveling alongside a rider, the Crew must not interfere with the normal flow of traffic in either direction. Remaining alongside longer than necessary in order to provide the Rider(s) an advantage against prevailing wind is prohibited. TP or DQ
6. To make hand-offs to a Rider, the Pace Vehicle or a Support Vehicle may proceed ahead of the Rider, stop off of the pavement, and use a pedestrian handoff as the rider passes. TP or DQ
7. A moving Rider may safely toss water bottles to the roadside. The Support Crew must pickup discarded water bottles. Riders shall not discard wrappers or litter. TQ or DQ
Parking of vehicles or spectators congregating on the shoulder of the highway is not permitted by the State Troopers. Vehicle parking must be at least thirty feet off the traveled surface of the highway. Whenever possible, support vehicles must park in the paved pull-outs on either side of the road for hand-offs to a Rider and relay exchanges. If a handoff is made from the shoulder of the highway, only the person making the handoff may be in the shoulder. Use caution at all times, particularly when parking and moving back into the roadway. TP or DQ
8. The Pace Vehicle may not impede following traffic. The Pace Vehicle must pull off the road and let traffic pass when five or more vehicles are waiting to pass. If traffic cannot pass the Rider and the Pace Vehicle at night, the Pace Vehicle should signal the Rider of the situation, and they both when it possible (safe) must pull over to allow the traffic to pass. TP or DQ
9. The Pace Vehicle should follow its Rider as far to the right of the lane as possible or on the paved shoulder. TP or DQ
10. Special attention by the Pace Vehicle drivers must be taken in passing situations when one rider overtakes another. The Rider and Pace Vehicle in the lead and getting passed must yield by slowly moving to the right. The following Rider must accelerate and pass on the left. Always yield to the normal flow of traffic. TP or DQ
11. If two riders decide to ride together, only one Pace Vehicle shall follow both Riders, and the other Pace Vehicle shall remain parked on the side of the road or shall drive up ahead and stop. Under no circumstances should two or more Pace Vehicles of different Riders caravan down the road or travel side by side at the speed of the Riders. Both Riders will be penalized. TP or DQ

Human Powered Vehicle
HPVs competing in Fireweed will follow the 400 soloist rules of the Fireweed, modified as suggested by the IHPVA for cross country events.

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