The games of skill are a test of bike handling skills. In 1999 this competition was introduced to Quebec (and in competition). These skill tests are for the Midget, Pee-Wee and Minor categories. The skills games are a test which demands great control of the bicycle as well as a lot of confidence in oneself. The skills competition allows riders to develop habits which increase their bike handling skills. This in turn should minimize the dangers during races since the cyclists would be more skillful! As they become more skillful, the young cyclists should come to have fewer spills. Instituted at the suggestion of Mr. Bernard Vives, this type of competition has long been used in his native country of France. In fact, in Europe, it is very much favored in preference to speed tests with the younger riders.

A number of cyclists do not like the skills competition, for it is by no means easy to exercise complete control over the bike and to roll through a line of cones where it is necessary to complete the course without touching any of them. To the misfortune of those who touch one of the obstacles, penalty seconds are added to his/her final time!!

Finally, after a season of these games, everyone is in agreement that Mr. Vives was justified in proposing this addition we are all winners in the end.

To read about the different types of skills tested in this competition, CLICK [games examples].