Ever wonder what it is like to work at a race as an official?  You've come to the right place!

Before you can join the officiating crew in any capacity, you must obtain your Officials License.  The steps to obtain that are on the USAC website.

Congratulations!  You've got your official's license.  Now, what is next?

Most events in New England allow for an apprentice spot on the crew.  This allows you to shadow and learn from experienced officials throughout the day.  We highly suggest you sign up for several events right away to take advantage of the experience.  (How to sign up?  Login to USAC-Officials.)

Being an official at an event allows you a front row seat to the action, but at the same time, you are giving back to the event by helping it run safely and fairly.

This article focuses on the "ground" officials. But, we are not forgetting about the moto officials, who provide important support to road races.  If you are interested in being a moto official, check out the USAC website post.

Once you have apprenticed, as a new official,  you are likely to be assigned as an Assistant Referee (AR), or Assistant Judge (AJ).  The responsibilities vary depending on the type of race, but have similarities across all.  Your educational materials to become an official should have included the descriptions.

Expect to wake up early and arrive at least one hour before the race starts.  Your Chief Referee will communicate with you the expected arrival time and meeting place, as well as assignments/positions for the day. You will meet with the entire crew and go over any logistics and expectations for the day.

If you are an AR for a road race, you most likely will be riding in a car driven by a volunteer, either in front or behind the field.  This is a very exciting place to be.  You get to be "in the race" in real time.  You will be observing participants for any violations (yellow line, etc), and taking time splits as necessary. You also may need to neutralize the race if conditions warrant.  You will likely be communicating with other AR's in motos on the course.

If you are an AR for a criterium, you may be in a pace car, but more often than not, you will be watching the finish line for clean sprints.  Also, you monitor the pit to ensure compliance.

If you are an AR at a cyclocross race, most of your day is spent in the pit.  This actually is a very fun place to be.  You ensure that racers enter and exit according to rules, and take time splits as needed.  You get an excellent view of the course and get to talk with mechanics, coaches and families of the racers all day!

If you are an AJ- for 'cross, road, and crits- most of your day is spent at the finish line writing down the numbers of racers as they cross the line.  This is an important role, even with a timing company on-site.  You help the Chief Judge verify results.  And, you get that front row seat to the race!  You will also assist with changing the lap cards and determining the race length in laps.

Do you love this?  GREAT!  Look for another post in the future profiling a Chief Referee!  Go on over to the USAC Website and start your officials course today!