FAQ
What is UNICON?
UNICON is the worlds biggest unicycling event, held every two years. It is the Olympics of unicycling, with many different styles of unicycling and countries represented. It is a two-part event, comprising The Unicycle World Championships, and The Unicycle World Convention.
Where and when is it?
UNICON XV will be hosted in Wellington, New Zealand, using some world-class facilities like the TSB Arena, Newtown Park, Waitangi Park and Mt Victoria. It is held from 28 Dec 2009 to 7 Jan 2010. Come celebrate the New Year and party with hundreds of international unicyclists.
What competitions are there at the World Championships?
The competition is split into Artistic Freestyle, Track and Field, Road Racing, Mountain Unicycling, Unicycle Hockey and Basketball, Street/Flatland and Trials. There’s a style to suit everybody.
What is the World Convention?
Running alongside UNICON are plenty of social activities, workshops, an opening parade and welcoming ceremony, public show, New Years Eve celebrations and entertainment, day rides, and more.
Why should I go?
This is the first time UNICON has been held in the Southern Hemisphere, and is a great chance to meet unicyclists from around the world. Imagine partying away in the New Year with hundreds of other unicyclists.
Am I good enough?
Yes! Unicycling is still an amateur sport. There is a wide range of ability and specialty events. For most competition, there is no qualifying entry. You can compete in your age group, and represent your country! If you can ride a unicycle, you can enter in most events.
How do I register?
Registrations are done online through the UNICON registration page. Register before 1 April and you get discounted early bird entry. The registration system allows you to save your registration and modify it as necessary.
Registration costs are:
Competitor
01-Jan-2008 to 01-Apr-2009 NZ$ 200
01-Apr-2009 to 01-Sep-2009 NZ$ 250
01-Sep-2009 to 01-Dec-2009 NZ$ 350
01-Dec-2009 to 08-Jan-2010 NZ$ 500
Non-competitor
01-Jan-2008 to 01-Apr-2009 NZ$ 75
01-Apr-2009 to 01-Sep-2009 NZ$ 100
01-Sep-2009 to 01-Dec-2009 NZ$ 125
01-Dec-2009 to 08-Jan-2010 NZ$ 150
What’s the difference between a competitor and a non-competitor?
As a non-competitor, you can watch any races, hockey/basketball matches, trials and street competition, artistic freestyle competition, etc. But you are not able to compete because you are not entered as a competitor. As a non-competitor, you can participate in the ‘convention’ part of UNICON, including workshops, opening/closing ceremonies, film night, UNICON day rides, and become part of the event.
How do I get a team together?
If you are interested in the relay race or team events like Basketball or Hockey, get a few riders from your club together and start practicing! If you are unable to get a team of 5 together, we can put you in a team at UNICON. For rules, refer to the IUF Rulebook.
What are the rules for competition?
The 2009 IUF Rulebook will be used for UNICON. It will be finalised just prior to UNICON XV and will be used for all competition events. The current 2008 rulebook is available on the IUF website.
Where can I stay in Wellington?
New Years is the quiet period in Wellington, so there is plenty of accommodation available. UNICON XV recommends the YHA Wellington, X Base Wellington, and Bay Plaza Hotel. They have excellent facilities and are right in the middle of town, close to all UNICON venues. Booking to stay in these places will also ensure that you have plenty of unicyclists to hang out with!
How can I find out more?
If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to contact: unicon15@gmail.com
Ken Looi +64 21 064 2548
Tony Melton +64 21 357830