Another idea is there is no rules about the ride. So 10 miles on a paved cycle path gives you the same as 10 miles through the middle of a forest. If you do a flat 30 miles you get the same points as someone who has ridden 15 miles and climbed 1500 ft. Makes the playing field more even that way. I only ride once a week so you dont have to be an athlete to join in, its just a good way to see rides in different parts of the country and have a bit of fun