As the race progressed it became readily apparent that the racers were not obeying the yellow/centre line rule. Around the 54km mark the race turned onto Concession 4 and the observation was – the entire race was proceeding down the left side of the road. To quote the official “at times there was a clear view right down the road to the lead car”. In an attempt to bring the race under control the follow vehicle used its horn to alert the racers – it did not work.
At this point the police made their safety concerns known to the official – in other words there was a significant danger to not only the racers but other users of the road. The police cruiser moved into the left (oncoming) lane with lights and siren on to move the racers back to the right. The result was unprecedented as racers moved to the right and once the cruiser passed them proceeded back to the left lane to draft behind the cruiser as it made its way down the road. As a result the cruiser was surrounded by racers on 3 sides while it proceeded down the wrong side of the road. Once past the group it continued on in the left lane to warn oncoming traffic.
Not only was there flagrant disregard for the yellow/centre line rule, the majority did not yield to a cruiser with its lights and siren on. At this point the race was called by the chief official. It is our belief that had this not been done the police would have stepped in and shut the race down. It is conceivable that both the Elite 1,2 and the M-1 race would have ended on lap 3.
The yellow/centre line rule is challenging for everyone. Members agree to follow the rules when they take out their licences. The Ontario Cycling Association and the officials will continue to take the steps necessary to ensure event safety and fair play. Observing the yellow/centre line rule is a requirement for road racing in Ontario.
Members are responsible for their actions and must make the choice to follow this rule.
It is regrettable that the choice of the majority of the M1 field created conditions that cost a small number of racers who played by the rules a chance at the podium.
Additional information on yellow line enforcement will be made available prior to the Niagara Classic O-cup event May 20, 2012.
Chris Chambers
President-Ontario Cycling Association