Unicycling
Unicon is the Olympics of Unicycling, with many different disciplines represented. If you thought unicycling was all about juggling and clowns, then Unicon will open you up to a whole new world.
Here is a quick guide to the different types of Unicycling you will see at Unicon:
Artistic Freestyle
This is like figure skating, but on a unicycle. Competitors compete in individual, pairs and group routines, which are set to music. Each 3min routine is performed in front of a panel of judges, and are marked according to their artistic performance, skill difficulty, execution, and originality. Competitors do a variety of tricks including pirouettes, spins and glides just like figure skating.
Track and Field
These are events held on an athletics track. As well as traditional athletics style races like 100m, 400m and 1600m, there are unicycle specific races like one-foot, backwards and gliding races. There are also high-jump and long-jump events.
Mountain-Unicycling
Just like mountainbiking, but done on one wheel. Competitors ride unicycles equipped with mountainbike tyres and wheels, and race in downhill, hillclimb and cross-country. You can ride anywhere a regular bicycle can!
Trials
This is similar to bicycle or motorcycle Trials. Competitors have to negotiate a series of obstacles without dabbing their foot on the ground. It is a test of balance and nerve as they hop and bounce their way through structures that are often several metres off the ground.
Road Racing
This is unicycle road racing over longer distances. There are two classes. In the Standard Class, all competitors have to ride the same sized unicycle (24″ wheel, 125mm cranks). It is a test of who can pedal the fastest without falling off! In the Unlimited Class, riders can ride large wheeled unicycles, often equipped with gears, and reach speeds close to 50km/hr. The races are held over 10km and a standard Marathon 42.195km
Street and Flatland
The newest and fastest growing segment in unicycling. Imagine doing skateboard style grinds, drops and flips, but on one wheel instead of four! These events are held at a local skatepark, and riders will amaze you with some of their skills and put the ‘extreme’ into unicycling.
Unicycle Hockey and Basketball
Hockey and Basketball are the traditional team sports played at Unicon, and follow a round-robin style elimination tournament.
