The Flanders region has several independent governing bodies that manage bicycle racing, not all of which are part of the UCI system. For a good overview site for all road racing, check out The Belgian Cycling Selection.
Most of the races we will attend will be from the following calendars:
- Official website of the Vlaamse Wieler Federatie
- Official website of Onafhankelijke Vlaamse Wieler Federatie
Racing generally begins at noon with the 55-plus age groups. The mid-40 to mid-50 year olds usually follow. The day finishes with the young masters and elite groups starting about 3:30 p.m. The age groups differ among the different federations, especially those that aren’t part of the UCI system. Race groups are by age group only. There are no categories for sub division.
There are often two groups on the course at the same time, with six groups total racing each day. Race lengths vary, from the young elite groups riding 70 kilometers down to 40 kilometers for the over 60- year-old groups.