NRC changes continue with new criterium calendar

Change is afoot again in the National Racing Calendar. USA Cycling announced the latest in a number of changes planned for the U.S. calendar this week with the creation of the National Criterium Calendar.

USAC managing director of national events, Micah Rice, has worked with board and staff members, as well as race organizers for over a year to revamp the NRC. Changes previously announced have included the requirement for amateur teams to register and maintain rosters in order to accrue points and limitations placed on guest riders.

“The new NCC will aim to give criterium racing, a uniquely American discipline, its own forum showcasing its own heroes,” said Rice.

A USAC release said that Rice’s team would continue to “carefully manage date conflicts for both the NRC and NCC. All of the NCC races will be included on the UCI Criterium calendar, which presently allows ProTeam and Pro Continental team riders to compete in those events.”

According to the release, beginning in 2012, the new-look National Racing Calendar will include “America’s top road races, stage races and mixed omniums including any .2 UCI event and will continue to be the showcase for the top American teams and riders.”