2025-2026 Track Season Changes: Setting the Pace with Safer, Smarter Race Starts and Updated Track Safety Features 

Milton, ON  

Part 1) Innovation on Track: Ontario Cycling Modernizes Race Starts with EP2000 System 

Ontario Cycling is setting the standard for innovation and safety in Canadian sport, officially phasing out the traditional starter pistol in favour of a safer, more advanced electronic system. The organization has adopted the EP2000 electronic starting pistol, a leading-edge solution that modernizes race operations and enhances both athlete and commissaire safety. 

Developed by long-time cycling official Ed Sitarski, the EP2000 replaces blank-firing pistols with a clear, consistent digital start signal, eliminating completely the risks associated with gunpowder-based devices. The unit seamlessly integrates with the audio and timing systems at the Mattamy National Cycling Centre in Milton, ensuring every start signal is heard loud, clear, and in perfect synchronization across the track. 

“Very few velodromes around the world are using this kind of technology,” said Sitarski. “We’re proud to be leading the way and making race starts safer for everyone involved.” 

 Priced at approximately $800, the EP2000 represents an affordable yet meaningful investment in the modernization of track cycling. Ontario Cycling is currently seeking sponsors and partners to help support this initiative and further expand access to this technology across its events. Those interested can reach out to events.team@ontariocycling.org. 

This advancement was made possible through collaboration and shared expertise from key partners, including Ian Baillie (Town of Milton), Paul Emblem (Milton Speedskating), and Sylvain Richard (RSS Timing). Together, these partners helped identify, test, and implement the new system—demonstrating the power of cross-sport collaboration and innovation within the Milton cycling community. 

By introducing the EP2000, Ontario Cycling continues to raise the bar for race operations—positioning Ontario as a leader in sport safety, modernization, and event excellence. As the sport evolves, this initiative underscores the organization’s commitment to creating safer, smarter, and more inclusive environments for athletes, coaches, and officials alike. 

Part 2) Track Safety Enhancements Lead to Updated Start Format for Cyclists 

Ontario Cycling has announced a key procedural change for the upcoming track cycling season, aimed at improving athlete safety and consistency across events. 

In addition to introducing the new electronic start pistol, recent modifications to the track, specifically the installation of plexiglass along the rail, have increased its height, making it more challenging for athletes to safely position themselves for standing starts. 

After consulting with Ontario Cycling’s Track Provincial Coach, Track Lead Commissaire, and counterparts in the UK who have faced similar issues, the organization will implement a revised start procedure for all events requiring a rail start. 

Under the new protocol, athletes will begin their race from the safety zone railing on the backstraight, completing a 1.5-lap rolling neutral start rather than the traditional single neutral lap. This adjustment is designed to ensure both safety and consistency across all disciplines and events. 

Ontario Cycling emphasizes that this change should be communicated clearly to athletes, coaches, officials, and timing staff ahead of each event to ensure smooth implementation.