A Guide to Starting Cyclocross 2025-26
If you are thinking of taking part but would like any help with anything cyclocross please ask any of our coaches and we can help advise and get you or your youngster started. The club really encourage anyone to have a go at this most accessible form of cycle racing which is fun and very friendly whatever your age or ability.
The Cyclocross season begins in September and runs until January and with a number of new members and / or parents wanting to find out more about taking part in the popular local events, here is a brief guide to help you getting started.
Matlock CC is part of the local Forme Notts and Derbys Cyclocross League (NDCXL) which runs between September to January in local park facilities. http://www.ndcxl.org.uk
Cyclo-cross is a fantastic, fun sport … a perfect introduction for youngsters into competitive cycle sport, likewise its a great way for all ages to get and keep fit on a bicycle. Come along and have a look!
Matlock have lots of members of all ages taking part so you won't be on your own! We usually congregate near our club gazebo next to the course so we can cheer each other on during the races. It really is a great family day out in a very friendly atmosphere with race categories for all ages.
Who can take part?
All are welcome to participate in the NDCXL – from beginners to experts, young to old, living in the area or not.
NDCXL is now an Open League which means that there is no need to affiliate separately and all entries will score League points
NDCXL Races are divided into age categories and have the same format at each event (note a full schedule of the running order of the day is on the NDCXL website):
Provisional race schedule for 25-26 (subject to confirmation by the league) here: https://www.ndcxl.org.uk/participate-2/
Note – If you are over 16 and do not have British Cycling membership (proof in the form of a licence will be required) you will need to pay £3 for day insurance – you could consider joining British Cycling. Online Pre-entry is through the British Cycling Website and will close about a week before the event. Entry on the line is available at an increased cost. Also note that gridding of riders takes place at the start line - information is here: http://www.ndcxl.org.uk/new/entry-fees/
What you’ll need:
• a bicycle in good working order, preferably with knobbly tyres – without bar ends (this is a league rule)
• a cycle helmet
• some comfortable sports clothing – senior riders should note that they must ride in their Matlock CC club or plain kit
• if you are a member of British Cycling then you’ll need your membership card/race licence (provisional licence only needed for cyclocross) – but don’t worry if you’re not in a club or not a British Cycling member – you can still ride with day insurance
• some extra time before your race starts to have a ride around your course – an hour is a good guide – you’ll get to chat and see what others are up to!
Where and When?
The event venues are displayed on the NDCXL events page, including postcodes for your sat nav and maps. http://www.ndcxl.org.uk/new/events/
The 2026-27 NDCXL calendar dates will appear on the NDCXL site.
Information on how to decide what age category you or your child is in is here:
http://www.ndcxl.org.uk/new/age-categories/
These are the age categories for the 2025-26 Season https://www.ndcxl.org.uk/age-categories/
Year of Birth Category
2017-current Under 9
2014-2016 Under 12
2012-2013 Youth – U14
2010-2011 Youth – U16
2008-2009 Junior
2004-2007 Under 23
1986-2003 Senior
1976-1985 Vet 40
1966-1975 Vet 50
1956-1965 Vet 60
1955 and earlier Vet 70+
Any questions please just ask as we have lots of experienced members who will be pleased to help............
