TERMS + CONDITIONS

HARRASSMENT + CHILD SAFETY

We are committed to maintaining an environment free from harassment of any kind. As a child-safe series, we take our responsibility to provide a family-friendly and inclusive atmosphere very seriously. All individuals involved are expected to adhere to VDHS policies, rules, procedures, guidelines, and agreements.

SEXUAL HARRASSMENT POLICY

The VDHS is committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for all participants, officials, volunteers, and spectators. Sexual harassment of any kind is unacceptable and will not be tolerated at our events, in person, or online in social media posts relating to our events. This policy outlines the expectations and procedures for addressing sexual harassment.

DEFINITIONS

Sexual Harassment is any unwelcome, inappropriate, or coercive behaviour of a sexual nature that creates a hostile or intimidating environment. This includes but is not limited to:

Unwanted sexual advances or requests for sexual favours.
Verbal comments or jokes of a sexual nature.
Physical contact that is unwanted or inappropriate.
Displaying sexually explicit material.
Hostile Environment: A situation where harassment creates an environment that is intimidating, hostile, or offensive to an individual or group.

REPORTING PROCEDURES

Immediate Reporting: Individuals who experience or witness sexual harassment should report the incident as soon as possible. Reports can be made to any VDHS official.

Formal Complaint: To file a formal complaint, individuals should provide a detailed account of the incident(s) to the event organisers. The complaint should include:

The name of the person accused of harassment.
A description of the behaviour or incident.
The date, time, and location of the incident.
Names of any witnesses.
Confidentiality: Reports of harassment will be handled with discretion. Confidentiality will be maintained to the extent possible, but complete confidentiality cannot be guaranteed if an investigation is required.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Participants: All participants, including athletes, officials, volunteers, and spectators, are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that respects the dignity and rights of others. This includes refraining from any form of sexual harassment.

Event Officials: Officials are responsible for enforcing this policy and ensuring that appropriate actions are taken if harassment is reported. They should also provide support to individuals who report harassment.

Event Organizers: Organizers must ensure that this policy is communicated to all involved in the event and that procedures for reporting and addressing harassment are clear and accessible.

INVESTIGATION + ACTION

Investigation: Upon receiving a report, the VDHS and event organisers will conduct a prompt and thorough investigation. This may include interviewing the complainant, the accused, and any witnesses.

Resolution: Based on the findings, appropriate action will be taken. This may include:

Reprimanding or removing the offender from the event, Disqualification and or forfeit of series points if deemed appropriate
Providing support and resources to the affected individual.
Implementing measures to prevent future occurrences.

Appeal: The accused and the complainant have the right to appeal the decision. Appeals should be submitted to the event organisers within a reasonable timeframe after the resolution.

UNACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR POLICY

SLEDGING

No 'sledging'—which includes derogatory remarks or taunting—towards athletes, officials, or event organizers, either in person or online.

TRACK SAFETY

Always stop or slow down when encountering a clear issue on the track, such as a downed rider, or when directed by a Marshal. Yellow flags signal to slow down; red flags mean you must stop.

LANGUAGE

Refrain from using swearing or inappropriate comments and language towards riders or spectators.

PROPERTY DAMAGE

Do not damage or deprive others of their property. The VDHS, its organisers, Hosting Clubs, race officials, volunteers, sponsors, and affiliates accept no responsibility for any damage to personal property, however caused, including but not limited to bikes and personal vehicles. This applies to all activities associated with the event, including practice sessions, races, and shuttles.

QUEUE JUMPING

Cutting in line is prohibited. Repeat offenders will be disqualified.

LIABILITY WAIVER

Downhill mountain biking is a high-risk sport with inherent dangers. By attending, spectating, or participating in the VDHS, you acknowledge and accept that you do so entirely at your own risk. The VDHS is a state-level competition and serves as a pathway to national, international, and World Cup events. It is not designed for beginners or novices. As such, the tracks will include sections that are technically challenging and potentially dangerous. Alternative “B” lines are available. It is incumbent upon each rider to ensure that they are physically, mentally, and technically capable of navigating the tracks. The VDHS, its organisers, Hosting Clubs, race officials, volunteers, sponsors, and affiliates accept no responsibility for any injuries or damage to personal property, however caused, including but not limited to bikes and personal vehicles. This disclaimer applies to all activities associated with the event, including practice sessions, races, and shuttles. These are the rules, IF YOU DO NOT ACCEPT THEM, DO NOT ENTER THE SERIES. Participants or supporters engaging in discussions contrary to this disclaimer and the following rules may face disqualification from the entire series.