National commissaire in 3 months: AusCycling launches ambitious program

Young cycling enthusiasts will become top-level officials in a matter of months through a new commissaire program by AusCycling.

Launched today, the Emerging Commissaires Fast Track Program will see up to 10 participants receive free, accelerated training to become a National Road Commissaire by the end of the year.

The program includes direct mentorship by a UCI commissaire during the 2022 UCI Road World Championships in Wollongong.

Photo: Ryan Miu

AusCycling is looking for participants under the age of 35.

“We’re lucky to have world-class commissaires at all levels in Australia. However, we’re cognisant that we need to attract a different demographic to the role,” said Kipp Kaufmann, AusCycling’s Executive General Manager for Sport.

“This is a unique program where we’re seeking to build on the knowledge of current and past riders and fast-track them to a national officiating role. It’s also a unique opportunity for a commissaire to develop toward the international level through to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Queensland.

In cycling, commissaires are responsible for most facets of competition including course and rider safety, fair play, and judging finish-line sprints. The commissaire pathway takes individuals from officiating at the grassroots level all the way to international races.

This pilot program represents a radically different approach to commissaire training.

“Normally, it would take around three years for someone to progress from club-level officiating to becoming a commissaire at the national level,” Kaufmann explained.

Photo: Con Chronis

“We’re looking for people who are passionate about road racing – likely someone with significant experience as a competitor – and are interested in staying involved in the sport as a commissaire for many years.”

The initiative is part of the legacy plan for Wollongong 2022 and includes travel support for participants to attend the World Championships in September.

AusCycling is accepting expressions of interest for the Emerging Commissaires Fast Track Program until July 15. Click here to submit your EOI.