The Federation of Inline Speed Skating is excited to announce a significant update to the Road Race Series structure, specifically tailored for our Mini, Pupil, and Cadet age categories.
The popularity of road racing among our youngest athletes has exceeded all expectations. To build on this enthusiasm and ensure our events remain development-focused, inclusive, and—most importantly—engaging, we are transitioning to a more dynamic multi-race format beginning with the Evesham 30k on March 24th, 2026.
A Strategic Evolution
Our mission is to provide a “meaningful journey” for every skater. At the developmental stages, we recognise that variety and frequency of racing are more beneficial than single, high-endurance efforts, whereas in the older age groups (Youth and above), distance races remain a key focus, offering greater competitive value and, in many cases, being the preferred race format. This revamp is designed to lower the barriers to entry for new skaters while sharpening the skills of our seasoned juniors.
Whats New
While the high-octane 100m Sprints remain a staple for all age groups, the endurance portion of the day for Minis, Pupils, and Cadets is undergoing a huge change:
- Multiple Races: Instead of one long-distance race, skaters will compete in several shorter, high-intensity races, finishing with a reduced endurance race. More races add value and shorter distances encourage skaters to experiment with drafting, positioning, and tactics more frequently.
- Venue-Specific Layouts: No two road venues are the same. We will now adapt the race format to specifically suit the strengths of each venue, ensuring the best possible racing experience.
- Medals for Mini, Pupil and Cadet will be awarded for the overall winner of the category across the races on the day instead of each individual race.
- There will be no sprint and endurance series.
What Remains the Same
The beating heart of our events remain unchanged. The Flagship Endurance Races for Youth and above will continue to dominate the afternoon schedule.
Podium presentations for the Mini, Pupil, and Cadet categories will continue to be conducted following the conclusion of their respective endurance events and prior to the commencement of the headline Youth and Senior endurance races.
The format for the Youth category (ages 15–16) and above remains fundamentally unchanged. The 100m sprint (or venue equivalent) remains a core component of the road program, while the flagship endurance races continue to serve as the premier events for Youth and Senior athletes.
In the Youth and Adult classifications, gold, silver, and bronze medals will be awarded to the top three finishers in each category for both the sprint and endurance races. Skaters in these categories who complete the full endurance distance but do not achieve a podium position will be presented with a finisher’s medal in recognition of their achievement.
Key Benefits
This update is focused on what matters most — skater development and experience. At these key developmental ages, variety and race frequency are critical. The new format will:
- Provide more race opportunities throughout the day
- Encourage development of tactics, speed, and adaptability
- Reduce the physical load on younger bodies and the risk of fatigue-related injury
- Create a more engaging and enjoyable experience for younger skaters
- Long distances can be daunting. This format makes our road events more accessible to those just starting their competitive journey.
- Provide an enhanced spectator experience
First Stop: Evesham
Join us on March 24th at Evesham for the debut of this refreshed format. Specific race details and course maps for Evesham will be released to all registered clubs and skaters via our digital channels shortly.
Federation of Inline Speed Skating Committee Developing the champions of tomorrow, today.