Balance Bike Blast! 2024 Playbook

1. Introduction

• Welcome to the Ride Push Move’s (“RPM”) inaugural balance bike competition!

• This event is dedicated to providing a fun, inclusive, and safe environment where children up to 8 years old can showcase their balance biking skills. We emphasise the importance of participation, learning, and enjoyment for all riders, regardless of their skill levels.

• Parents and guardians are encouraged to support a positive and encouraging atmosphere throughout the event.

• This playbook shall serve as a comprehensive guide for our event, detailing the rules, regulations, and safety protocols to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience for all participants.

2. Age Categories

• Our competition is designed to accommodate a variety of age groups, making it accessible for both beginners and more experienced young riders.

• Each participant will be placed in the appropriate category based on the child’s year of birth. The inclusion of mixed-gender categories for the younger age groups allows for broader participation, focusing on the joy of riding over competition.

• The categories are structured as follows:

• 2 Year Old (Mixed Gender)
• 3 Year Old (Mixed Gender)
• 4 Year Old (Mixed Gender)
• 5 Year Old (Girls)
• 5 Year Old (Boys)
• Open (5-8 Year Old Girls)
• Open (5-8 Year Old Boys)
• Rising Star (3-5 Year Old, Mix Gender)

• The Rising Star category is dedicated to beginner riders aged 3-5 years, to encourage more participation in cycling through balance bikes in Singapore

• To participate in the Rising Star category, riders must meet the following criteria:

• Be a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident
• Have participated in no more than 3 local races in 2024
• Have never placed on the podium in 2024
• Have never competed in any race outside of Singapore in 2024
• Must use a standard Papabike One 12" balance bike (provided at random by RPM)

• Helmets will also be available for loan to ensure the safety of riders. For hygiene reasons, parents may wish to bring their child's own personal helmet and safety gears e.g. gloves, knee and elbow pads.

• The Rising Star category focuses on building confidence and promoting a love for cycling through balance bikes in a less-competitive environment.

 

3. Event Schedule (updated)

• The event schedule will be confirmed closer to the event date based on the total number of registrations. The tentative schedule is as follows:

• Parents/Guardians should take note of the following details:

• Registration and Race Kit Collection: Participants and their families should arrive at least 30 minutes before their scheduled race to register and collect their race kits.

• Practice Runs: The track will be open for practice runs 15 minutes before the start of the official races. This allows participants to familiarise themselves with the track layout.

• Race Start Time: Races will commence as per the schedule. Please ensure that participants are ready at least 10 minutes before their scheduled race time.

• Podium Ceremony: The podium ceremony will take place immediately after the final races. All participants and their families are encouraged to stay and celebrate the achievements of all our young riders.

 

4. Awards and Prizes

• To celebrate the achievements of our young riders, we have arranged for goodie bags, prizes trophies and medals with the support of our event partners.

• Each registration is entitled to receive a goodie bag and the race kit, which includes the race bib with the child’s race tag number, nickname or preferred name printed.

• Podium prizes:

• Trophies will be presented to the top six (6) finishers in each of the eight (8) categories.

• These trophies recognise the outstanding efforts of our young participants and will be awarded during the official podium ceremony immediately after each category.

• A Pikachu Papabike, will be awarded to the winner of the Special Category, adding an element of excitement and encouragement for beginners.

• Participation Medals:

• Every child who does not make it to the finals of each race category, will receive a participation medal.

• These medals serve as a memento of their involvement and effort, reinforcing the message that participation and enjoyment are the most important aspects of the event.

• We encourage all children to stick around after the race to celebrate and recognise the achievements of their peers, even if they don’t make it to the podium this time.

 

5. Race Format

• Our competition aims to provide multiple racing opportunities for all participants, ensuring a fair and engaging experience.

• Heats / Elimination Stages: Each category will operate on an elimination basis. In each heat, the top-performing riders will advance to the next round. This progression will continue until the final round, where the top riders compete for podium positions.

• Repechage Round: To give all children a fair chance, those who do not qualify through their initial heats will have the opportunity to compete in a repechage round. This ensures that each participant races at least twice, creating a positive and inclusive environment where every child feels valued and encouraged.

• Finals: The best-performing riders from the heats / elimination stages and repechage will advance to the final rounds. Depending on the total number of participants in each category, races may proceed to quarterfinals, semifinals, and ultimately the final race.

 

6. Start Procedure

• A fair and exciting start procedure is critical for the success of each race using a starting gate.

• Races will begin with all riders lined up behind a specially designed start gate. Upon the start signal (music tune), the gate will drop, allowing all participants to begin racing simultaneously. This method ensures a standardised and fair start for all riders.

• Riders must stay within their designated lane at the start of each race, with lanes clearly marked by tape from the starting gate. Failure to do so may result in demotion of the final race result.

 

7. Rules and Regulations

• To maintain a safe and fair competition, the following rules and regulations will be strictly enforced.

• Bike Requirements:

• Only balance bikes (without pedals) with wheels no larger than 12 inches are permitted.

• Bikes with pedals, training wheels, or any form of electric assistance are prohibited to maintain fairness and safety.

• Handlebars must not be more than 460mm in length (end-to-end)

• Helmet and Safety Gear Requirement:

• All participants must always wear a helmet and closed-toe shoes when on the bike. Helmets must be securely fastened. Any participant without a helmet or the required safety gear will not be allowed to race.

• Gloves, knee and elbow pads are highly recommended but not mandatory.

• Footwear: Participants must wear closed-toe shoes. Sandals, flip-flops, or bare feet are not permitted, as these do not provide adequate protection.

• The finish line is considered reached when the front tire of the bike touches the designated finish line marker for the race to be officially completed.

• Course Conduct: Participants are required to stay within the designated track boundaries. Cutting corners or knocking down cones will result in disqualification or a demotion of race results. This rule ensures that all riders compete fairly and safely.

• Parental Assistance:

• Parents of children in the 2 Year Old category will be allowed in the field of play i.e. on the race track, for the heats and up to the semifinal runs
• To foster independence and develop critical thinking skills, parents are NOT allowed on the race track for the final.
• Parents must ensure that you do not block, obstruct, come in contact, intimidate, or perform any unsportsmanlike conduct onto other riders. Doing so will result in disqualification or a demotion of race results.

• Parents or guardians are NOT allowed to assist their children during the race. Any form of external assistance, including pushing or pulling, will lead to disqualification or a demotion of race results.

(Note: An exception may be allowed to this rule, at the discretion of the race commissaire, to allow a reserved or less-experienced child to complete the race.)

• Fair Play and Sportsmanship: All participants, parents, and spectators are expected to encourage fair play and good sportsmanship. Negative behavior, such as pushing, shoving, or unsportsmanlike conduct, will not be tolerated and may result in disqualification or removal from the event. A supportive parental environment is crucial to the positive experience of all children.

• Dispute Resolution: In the event of any disagreement or challenge to the official results, parents or guardians, on behalf of the participants, must make a formal complaint to the chief commissaire for deliberation. Upon review, the organisers' decision is final, and no further changes to the results will be entertained. This process ensures a fair and transparent resolution of any disputes.

 

8. Safety Guidelines (Do’s and Don’ts)

• To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants, please adhere to the following guidelines:

• Do’s:

• Ensure helmets, gloves, and closed-toe shoes are worn and securely fastened at all times. Safety is our top priority.

• Inspect your child’s bike before the race. Check for loose or broken parts that could compromise safety.

• Encourage your child to participate with a positive attitude, focusing on having fun and enjoying the experience.

• Stay within designated spectator areas to ensure the safety of all participants and viewers.

• Report any safety concerns to event staff immediately for prompt attention.

• Ensure that your child is familiar with the course and understands the importance of staying within the designated track boundaries.

• Adhere to existing rules and regulations of the event venue.

 

• Don’ts:

• Don’t allow children to race without proper safety gear. Helmets and closed-toe shoes are mandatory. Additional gear such as gloves, knee and elbow pads are highly recommended.

• Don’t use bikes other than balance bikes. Maintaining consistency ensures a fair competition for all.

• Don’t enter the track area during races. Only participants and authorised personnel are permitted on the track for safety reasons.

• Don’t engage in negative behavior. Refrain from shouting aggressively from the sidelines or showing frustration. This event is about fun, learning, and developing a love for balance bikes.

• Don’t allow your child to participate if they are feeling unwell or have any injuries. Safety and well-being are paramount. There will always be another race.

 

9. Waiver and Discharge of Liability

• To participate in the event, all parents or guardians must have read and acknowledged the declaration found in the registration form and at the organisers website.

• This includes:

• Acknowledgment of Risks: Parents and guardians acknowledge the inherent risks associated with balance bike competitions, including but not limited to falls, collisions, and injuries. By signing the waiver, they agree to assume all such risks on behalf of their child.

• Liability Release: Participants and their parents or guardians agree to release and hold harmless the event organizers, partners, sponsors, volunteers, and venue owners from any and all liability, claims, demands, losses, or damages that may occur as a result of participation in the event, whether caused by the negligence of the releasees or otherwise.

• Indemnification: Parents or guardians agree to indemnify and defend the event organizers and associated parties against any claims or lawsuits brought against them arising out of the participant’s actions, participation, or attendance at the event.

• Medical Consent: Authorisation for emergency medical treatment if necessary. Parents or guardians will be contacted immediately if such a situation arises. They consent to the administration of necessary medical treatment in the case of an emergency and agree to be responsible for any costs incurred.

• Finality Clause: By submitting the registration form, parents and guardians agree that they fully understand the terms and conditions of the waiver, discharge of liability, and indemnification provisions. They acknowledge that they have read, understood, and voluntarily agreed to all terms as a condition of their child’s participation.

10. Parent/Guardian Instructions

• To ensure the smooth running of the event, parents and guardians are requested to follow these instructions:

• Event-Day Registration: Please ensure your child is registered online prior to the event. Collect the race kit, participant number, and safety check card at least 30 minutes before your child’s race category is scheduled to start.

• Viewing Areas: Stay within the designated spectator zones. These areas are established to maintain safety and ensure a clear view of the track for officials and participants.

• Encouragement: Create a positive atmosphere by encouraging all participants. Applaud good effort, display sportsmanship, and support the spirit of friendly competition.

• Post-race Care: Ensure your child stays hydrated and takes adequate rest after each race. Attending the awards ceremony to celebrate all participants is a wonderful way to conclude the event.

 

11. Rights of Organiser

• While RPM will strive to adhere to the stipulated schedule, parents should understand that delays may occur due to unforeseen circumstances.

• RPM reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to cancel, modify, or suspend the competition or any part of it at any time. RPM may also reschedule the competition dates or extend the competition period if necessary.

 

12. No Refunds Policy

• All payments made for the event are final and non-refundable, regardless of any changes in schedule, venue, or participant availability. This includes situations such as cancellations, postponements, or any adjustments to the event details. Participants who are disqualified for any reason, including rule violations or failure to follow event guidelines, will not be eligible for a refund. Additionally, swapping or replacing participants is not allowed under any circumstances. By registering, you acknowledge and agree to these terms, waiving any rights to request a refund or make participant substitution.

 

13. Privacy Policy

• RPM respects the privacy of individuals and is committed to complying with the Personal Data Protection Act 2012 (PDPA). We collect, use and may disclose personal data to support the objectives of this event. By participating, you acknowledge and consent to these terms and release RPM, its affiliates, employees, and volunteers from any liability associated with the use of such media. Visit https://www.ridepushmove.com/policies/privacy-policy for more information.

 

14. Contact Information

• For any inquiries regarding the event, please contact the organisers at ridepushmove@gmail.com or visit ridepushmove.com for more information.

• On the day of the event, information and assistance can be obtained at the registration desk. Event staff and volunteers will be readily available to answer questions and provide support.

 

15. Acknowledgement

• Thank you for being a part of RPM's balance bike competition.

• We look forward to an exciting day filled with fun, learning, and wonderful memories.

• By adhering to the guidelines and fostering a supportive environment, we can ensure a successful event for all our young riders and their families.