Getting into racing
If you think your child has a competitive streak there are lots of racing opportunities to choose from. And an Islabike will adapt to most of them.
Disciplines
Most velodromes (tracks) run a weeknight track league throughout the summer, and these usually have races for children of all ages. Some tracks will allow them to use any type of bike, and some will have specialist racing machines available to borrow. They will get several races in one evening and races are usually very cheap or even free to enter, and you get to watch the grown ups race too. As an alternative to a velodrome keep your eyes peeled for a grass track meet. Grass track is great for any level of rider and it allows participants to experience a variety of different races.
Cyclo cross is a great introduction to racing for children. Almost all cyclo cross races have events for children of all ages, and once again no special machine is required. The sport is friendly and informal and takes place all winter at off-road venues all over Wales and England (not so many in Scotland, but growing here too). Under 12's race free of charge and entries are normally taken on the day. There are leagues with weekly races in most areas.
Road racing is organised on short circuits in parks for children, in the summer. This is a great way to experience the thrill of fast paced riding whilst in the safety of a traffic free tarmac circuit.
Triathlon is a multi discipline sport which involves swimming, cycling and running. Junior triathlon leagues can be found regionally and are great fun for all ages. Typically the cycling courses are on short grass surfaces.
http://www.britishtriathlon.org/
How to get involved
Try contacting your local cycling club. This is the best way to find out what is going on in your local area and how to get involved. British Cycling is the National Governing Body for cycling in the UK. Their website allows you to locate your local cycling club and informs you how to get in touch:
http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/clubfinder
Clubs that Cater specifically for children are classed as Go Ride clubs. Go Ride is British Cycling's development programme for young people. The programme provides a fun and safe way to introduce young riders to the world of cycle sport and provides a platform to improve bike handling skills. Go-Ride Racing is an entry level competition programme which offers local competition for novice cyclists under the age of 16, helping young people make a gradual transition into competitive cycling.
British Cycling's website has up to date calendars of all racing, click on 'young people' for news of events for children or search for their 'Go Ride' schemes up and down the country.
