FEEED ZOHN
Noun
A designated area during a race where riders can refuel with food and drink.
Example usage: 'I need to make sure I get to the feed-zone before I run out of energy.'
Most used in: Road racing and long-distance cycling events.
Most used by: Professional cyclists and amateur racers.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 3/10
Also see: Aid Station, Refueling Point, Re-fuel Stop, Pit Stop,
What is a Cycling Feed-Zone?
A cycling feed-zone is an area set up along a cycling race route where riders can take on food and drink to replenish their energy and hydration levels. This is an important part of the race as riders can become fatigued and dehydrated over long distances, so having a designated area to restock is essential.
Feed-zones are usually located at pre-determined points along the race route, and are typically marked with flags or banners. Riders must enter the feed-zone at a slow speed, as it is technically a ‘pit-stop’, and must not receive any assistance from their team or other riders.
Feed-zones can vary in size depending on the type of race and the number of entrants, but typically they will have a few tables with food and drinks on them, where riders can quickly grab what they need and then continue the race.
According to statistics from the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), the average number of feed-zones in a professional cycling race is three. The UCI also states that feed-zones should be located in areas that are easily accessible, and that they should be at least 30 metres long.
.The Origin of the Term 'Feed-Zone' in Cycling
The term 'feed-zone' first appeared in cycling in the early 1980s in the United States. It was used to refer to the area in a cycling race where riders could receive food and drink from their team support staff. This area would usually be located in the middle of a race, allowing riders to refuel and prepare for the second half of the race.
The term was popularized by American cyclist Greg LeMond, who was the first to use the term during his 1983 Tour de France victory. LeMond's use of the term has since been adopted by the cycling community and is now widely used in the sport.
Today, the term 'feed-zone' is used to refer to any area of a race where riders can receive food and drink from their team support staff. It is an integral part of any cycling race, as it allows riders to refuel and replenish their energy levels during a race.