HUB24 Event Regulations(EN)

HUB24 Event Regulations

These regulations define the matters that participants (hereinafter referred to as “Participants”) must adhere to and be aware of for the execution of the Wakayama Kichu Cycle Festa “HUB24” (hereinafter referred to as the “Event”).

1. General Matters Regarding the Event

1. General Matters Regarding the Event
2. This event is not a race based on finishing positions or times but a fan ride event. Participants are to prioritize safety, enjoy cycling, and cooperate in the smooth operation of the event.
3. Participants must review, understand, and agree to the regulations, guidelines, important notices, and terms set by the organizers (hereinafter referred to as “Regulations, etc.”) before participating in the event.
4. Participants should pay attention to announcements from the event organizers, other distributed materials, and strive to keep up with the latest information about the event from the official event website.
5. Participants who violate the Regulations, etc. may be prohibited from participating in the event.
6. Participants must take full responsibility for their own safety and health management while participating in the event.
7. Participants should be mindful of etiquette and behavior, understanding that the event area includes local residents’ roads, and participate accordingly.

2. Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility Requirements

Participants must be in good health, possess the physical ability to complete the HUB24 courses at the following estimated paces, and be able to safely judge their own ability to ride:

• Long Course (approximately 110 km, estimated pace 22 km/h)
• Short Course (approximately 60 km, estimated pace 17 km/h)

Participants must be junior high school students or older and be capable of riding responsibly under their own judgment.

3. Bicycle Specifications

3. Bicycle Specifications

Basic Requirements:

1. The bicycle must be equipped with necessary features and functions as required by law for riding on public roads.
2. The bicycle must have a freewheel system with fully functioning front and rear brakes, and be durable enough for normal riding.

Equipment and Accessories:

1. Wearing a helmet and having a front light, rear light, or reflector is mandatory.
2. Any equipment or decorations that are unnecessary for riding and may hinder safe riding are prohibited.

4. Bicycle Inspection, Bicycle Management, Clothing, and Personal Items

4. Bicycle Inspection, Bicycle Management, Clothing, and Personal Items

(1) Bicycle Inspection

1. Ensure that the bicycle you use on the day of the event is properly maintained and complies with legal and bicycle specifications. It must be equipped with a front light, rear light (tail light), or reflector.
2. It is recommended to have the bicycle inspected and serviced in advance at a bicycle shop or similar facility.
3. A visual inspection of bicycles will be conducted by event staff before the start on the day of the event.
4. Bicycles that lack necessary equipment or functions, have prohibited equipment or decorations, or are judged by the organizers as unsafe due to insufficient maintenance will not be allowed to start.

(2) Bicycle Management, Theft, and Damage

1. The organizers will not be responsible for theft or damage to bicycles.
2. Participants should secure their bicycles with a lock and are advised to have insurance to cover any potential issues.

(3) Clothing

1. Wear high-visibility clothing suitable for exercise.
2. Participation in costumes or mascot outfits is prohibited.
3. A bicycle helmet must be worn at all times during the ride. It is also recommended to wear gloves to prevent injuries in case of a fall.

(4) Personal Items

1. The sticker provided by the event must be attached to your clothing or bicycle as it serves as proof of registration and will be used for identity verification by the organizers.
2. You will not be allowed to start if you forget your helmet.
3. Participants are responsible for handling flat repairs and should carry tools, a pump, and spare tubes. In case of trouble, move to a nearby aid station or a space with sufficient availability and contact the event’s operational office.
4. Prepare clothing and rain gear to protect against cold and rain.
5. Carry your health insurance card, mobile phone, and money for emergencies.
6. It is recommended to bring your own nutrition and drinks that you can carry yourself.

５. Cycling Management

5. Cycling Management

(1) General Cycling Rules

1. Participants must adhere to laws, regulations, and instructions from event staff, police officers, security personnel, and others (collectively referred to as “staff”) at all times.
2. Participants must follow traffic laws and regulations, prioritize safety, and avoid causing inconvenience to other road users.
3. If a participant engages in dangerous behavior or does not follow staff instructions, a warning will be issued. Continued non-compliance may result in disqualification from the event.
4. Participants must familiarize themselves with the course route, junctions, aid stations, checkpoints, time limits, and any specific instructions before the event.
5. In case of an accident or injury, or if witnessing such incidents, participants must report to staff. If no staff is nearby, contact the event headquarters.

(2-1) Cycling Conduct

1. Cyclists must adjust their speed and riding method to avoid harming or inconveniencing others based on road and traffic conditions.
2. Overtaking lead staff on the course is prohibited.
3. Participants must follow the designated direction of travel.
4. Maintain a safe distance from other cyclists to avoid accidents caused by sudden braking.
5. Avoid unnecessary lane changes and sudden stops to ensure safe riding.
6. When overtaking other participants, signal your intention and communicate to ensure safe passing.
7. If staff determine that finishing within the time limit is not feasible or further riding is unsafe, participants will be directed to support vehicles. Follow staff instructions.
8. Using headphones or similar devices is prohibited, except for hearing aids.
9. One-handed riding while holding a camera or smartphone is prohibited.
10. Ensure lights are on in poor weather, at dusk, or in tunnels.
11. Riding with two people on one bicycle is prohibited.

(2-2) Road Behavior

1. Generally, ride single file along the left side of the road.
2. Avoid riding side-by-side, weaving, cutting in, or dangerous overtaking.
3. Do not overtake in narrow areas, access roads, or bridges.
4. When riding in areas with poor visibility or curves, stay to the left and proceed cautiously, expecting oncoming traffic.
5. Riding off the designated course is prohibited. Intentional course deviation may result in disqualification.
6. Always signal turns with hand signals for safety, or verbally communicate if signaling is unsafe.
7. If stopping on the course, ensure safety by checking for traffic, signaling to those behind, and moving to a safe area like a sidewalk.
8. Be vigilant of pedestrians and vehicles around you.
9. Support vehicles from family members or others are prohibited as they are dangerous and obstructive to general traffic.

(3) Bicycle Failures

1. If a bicycle malfunctions, pull over to a safe location (e.g., sidewalk) to make repairs.
2. If repairs are not possible on your own, seek assistance from the nearest event staff.
3. Participants should be prepared to handle basic repairs, such as fixing a flat tire, on their own.
4. Some aid stations will offer mechanical services, but parts replacement will be charged.

Withdrawal (Retirement)

1. Participants should plan their pace with ample time, considering the event’s end time.
2. Unauthorized withdrawal is prohibited.
3. If withdrawing, promptly contact event staff and follow their instructions.
4. Participants who withdraw will be transported to the finish line via support or medical vehicles.
5. In the event of a bicycle malfunction or health issues, do not push yourself and consult the nearest event staff for assistance.

（1）Registration

1. On the day of the event (November 24), all participants must complete registration at the designated registration area.
   • Note: A pre-event registration will also be available at the “Minabe Town Merger 20th Anniversary Event” held at the same venue as HUB24 the day before.
2. Registration on the event day will not be accepted for those who have not completed pre-entry.

（2） Assembly

1. On the day of the event (November 24), considering potential congestion on surrounding roads, ensure you arrive early enough to complete registration by at least 30 minutes before the start time.
2. Use the event parking areas without causing inconvenience to others.
3. Travel from the parking area to the starting point by bicycle.
4. If you are unable to make it to the start on time, you will not be permitted to start the event. Please note that entry fees will not be refunded in such cases. (Similarly, no refunds will be issued for cancellations made in advance; instead, event merchandise will be mailed to your home.)

Measures Against COVID-19

1. As of May 8, 2023, COVID-19 has been downgraded from a Category 2 infectious disease to a Category 5 infectious disease, and national guidelines have relaxed mask-wearing and other measures. Consequently, COVID-19 countermeasures for this event will be based on individual judgment.
2. Participants are encouraged to take necessary precautions such as wearing masks and using alcohol-based hand sanitizers as needed.

９. Disclaimer

1. Event Cancellation or Suspension

• The event may be cancelled or suspended if there are foreseeable dangers such as earthquakes, floods, strong winds, snowfall, lightning, incidents, accidents, infectious diseases, J-Alert warnings, or terrorism, based on the organizer’s judgment.
• If the event is cancelled or suspended due to reasons beyond the organizer’s control, such as worsening weather conditions, poor riding environments, or the spread of COVID-19, no refunds will be provided.

2. Compensation During the Event

• For injuries or accidents occurring during the event, compensation will be provided within the limits of the insurance coverage held by the organizers, except in cases of intentional misconduct or gross negligence by the organizers.
• Damage or theft of bicycles, helmets, clothing, or other personal equipment is not covered by the organizer’s insurance. Participants should have their own insurance to cover such risks.
• While first aid will be provided at the headquarters and aid stations, any necessary hospital treatments (including initial consultation fees) are the responsibility of the participant. Therefore, participants should carry their health insurance card and be prepared to cover any medical expenses themselves.

Organizer’s Injury Insurance Coverage (Tentative)

• Insurance Period: From the start to the end of the event.

Scope of Compensation Coverage			Compensation Amount
Disaster Death Compensation Amount		Injury Accident Compensation	5 million yen
		Specific Diseases Compensation
Disability Compensation		Injury Accident Compensation	Up to 5 million yen
		Specific Diseases Compensation
Medical Expense Compensation	Daily Hospitalization Benefit	Injury Accident Compensation	5,000 yen (within 180 days)
		Specific Diseases Compensation
	Daily Outpatient Benefit	Injury Accident Compensation	3,000 yen (within 90 days)
		Specific Diseases Compensation