Categories
The ECCC runs fields for all ability levels at every race, catering to everybody from complete beginners to veteran pros for both Men and Women.
Road
All ECCC road races feature four fields (A--D, Intro), typically spread across 5 fields.
A (Collegiate Category A, USAC Category 1/2/3): For expert, veteran racers; often includes semi-pro and pro riders.
B/C (Collegiate Category B/C, USAC Category 3/4): For racers with a significant amount of experience and results.
C/D (Collegiate Category D, USAC Category 5): For newer riders who have done some racing or group riding.
Collegiate Intro: For beginners without racing or group riding experience.
The ECCC's Introduction to Bicycle Racing categories are for new racers looking to learn more about riding, particularly in a group, and get some racing experience in a safe, educational environment. More information is available on the Intro page.
More information on Women's categories and their organization is available in the ECCC Women's section.
Mountain Biking
Every MTB rider has separate categories for Endurance (XC/STXC), Downhill/Super-D, and Dual Slalom/Mountain Cross, each consisting of two women's fields (A, B) and three men's fields (A, B, C).
A (Collegiate Category A, USAC Category Pro/1): For veteran, technically competent and fit racers.
B (Collegiate Category B, USAC Category 2): For racers with some amount of MTB riding or racing experience.
C (Collegiate Category C & D, USAC Category 3): For riders new to MTB riding and racing.
ECCC MTB races do not have separate Intro categories due to the nature of the races. However, half an hour before every XC and STXC race begins for the day there is a coached clinic. These feature drill exercises and instruction to help new riders pick up a few more skills and improve their racing. Look for these to meet by the starting line of each endurance race.