KEIRIN

The Keirin, which originated in Japan, is a race for up to 7 riders in one heat. Riders follow in the slipstream of the derny - a powered bicycle - around the track for the first 1400 meters. The derny gradually increases the speed from 25 km/h to 45 km/h. After 1400 meters, the derny pulls off the track to let the riders sprint the last 600 meters for the win.

Keirin is part of the Olympic Games.

The starting positions of the riders is determined by drawing lots. The riders are placed side by side in that order on the pursuit line, the sprinters’ lane being left free. The riders are held, but not pushed, by assistants.

The start is given when the derny approaches the pursuit line in the sprinters’ lane. At the start, riders take their positions determined by the draw, directly behind the derny, for at least the first lap, failing which the race shall be stopped and riders that failed to comply shall be disqualified. In the restart, the remaining riders shall again take their same relative positions behind the derny.