RUTLAND, Vt. (BRAIN) — A new organization, North American Cycle Sport, says it will support grass-roots bike racing by offering lower membership and insurance costs than USA Cycling.
NACS will provide membership packages for competitive and non-competitive events in the U.S. It will offer one-day memberships and a special "5 for $35" program for individuals and families, along with an unlimited membership package.
"We want people to be out on bikes," said NACS chief executive Tod Manning. "We will measure our success by increasing the number of riders who participate in cycling events across North America, while creating a sense of community amongst all cycling disciplines."
NACS has established a business association with BikeReg.com to be the group's official technology provider. A three-year agreement with BikeReg will provide NACS members with membership and event registration, event results and rankings, and online permit applications for promoters.
"Event directors are key members of the cycling world," Manning said. "We want to help them minimize their overhead and reduce the time and expense that goes along with obtaining an event permit. We will also provide them access to comprehensive, reasonably priced insurance. One of the most robust features of our liability insurance is that it includes motor vehicles and motorcycles for no additional cost."
NACS hopes to work with existing local race associations across the country through a revenue-sharing model.
"Local associations that support us on a non-exclusive basis will not only receive significant financial benefits, but they will also have ability to help shape the direction of grass-roots cycling in North America," Manning said.
"Our mission is to provide the highest-quality services and programs to operate and advance cycling sporting events in a cost-effective and transparent manner," he said. "We are going to do some great things for our sport."
According to NACS' website, the new organization will support USA Cycling's mission to grow competitive cycling in America by providing an alternative solution for race promoters who are putting on “unsanctioned” grass-roots races.
More information at nacs.bike.
