BOPLAN® unveils the “Race Totem” for more safety during cycling races

26.08.2020

The RACE TOTEM is the newest safety solution from BOPLAN® and specially designed for cycling races. The synthetic (polymer) totem of 2m40 high was shown “live” for the first time during a press presentation at the BOPLAN® headquarters in Moorsele (BEL). Obstacles on the course are now clearly indicated and secured. Risks of collision and injury are drastically reduced, both for participants as for event marshals and co-workers.

Due to its striking yellow color, its height of 240 cm, a pulsating signal light at the top and an auditory warning signal, the totem primarily has a signalling function. For example, participants are warned from afar for potential dangers (pedestrian refuge islands, speed bumps, junctions, pinch points, narrowings of carriageways, traffic signs, etc.) on the course. In addition, large black arrows indicate on which side the obstacle must be passed. In the event of a collision, the risk of physical injury is drastically reduced by the impact-absorbing synthetic material from which the totem is made.

Several recent incidents painfully revealed that a more co-ordinated and thorough approach towards prevention and safety during cycling races is paramount. As a result, adequately securing the course has become a priority for every race competition organizer. The use of race marshals in critical places on the course revealed to be insufficient in several cases. As a result, both the cyclist and the event marshals run the risk of serious injury due to a collision.

For over 20 years, BOPLAN® has been developing and producing innovative solutions in the field of polymer collision protection for industrial, logistical and production environments. Under the name "BOPLAN® SPORT", the company now offers its expertise to the benefit of the sports world, with the mission to increase safety during sporting events and to avoid serious accidents.

The RACE BUMPERs of BOPLAN® were first introduced during the 2019 E3 BinckBank Classic race in Harelbeke (BEL). They were deployed at 65 critical places along the course. This first collaboration turned out to be a hit and was considered very valuable by all parties involved:

  • the organizer who enjoys extra peace of mind at the start of the event
  • cyclists, race marshals and signalmen who are better protected
  • BOPLAN® who can live up to its social commitment by sharing its expertise to the benefit of (cycling) sport

This year, the organization of the E3 BinckBank Classic is taking a next step in safety and prevention: in addition to the RACE BUMPERs, 30 to 50 of the new BOPLAN® RACE TOTEMs will be deployed at critical locations. These "signal givers with super power" ensure next-level security. Human marshals can then be deployed more efficiently at places where their presence offers real added value: at complex intersections, situations that require assessment, crowd management, etc.

A summary of the most important features of the new BOPLAN® RACE TOTEM:

  • high signalling value due to:
    • large size (H 240 x W 120 x D 90 cm)
    • striking color
    • audio signal up to 92 dB
    • light signal at the very top
  • arrows indicate on which side racers have to pass
  • made from impact-absorbing polymer
  • designed with only round shapes, reducing the risk of collision injury
  • can be weighted for optimum stability
  • easy and fast deployment
  • equipped with a GPS tracking system