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Teamwork in The South West
Story posted March 16, 2010; Andy Parker; BC South West Regional Events Officer
Last weekend, the South West British Cycling Team of Regional Manager Chris Yates, Talent Development Coach Ric Jamieson and Events Officer Andy Parker joined together to work with local clubs at a car park on the outskirts of Exeter.
Their combined mission was to create the opportunity for the clubs to promote entry level events, provide training for event officials, demonstrate the benefits of becoming Go-Ride clubs and provide additional support for the existing British Cycling club coaches.
Their willing guinea pigs were chosen from the members of the Exeter Wheelers, CS Dynamo and the Axe Valley Peddallers. Over the course of the morning everyone got to grips with their roles and responsibilities and became experts on the twisting circuit provided. Regional Events Officer Andy Parker takes up the story.
"I was contacted by the clubs who wanted to put on some low key events to introduce new people to cycle sport and capitalise on the interest created by the Tour Series criterium in Exeter. When it came to the venue, a little creative thinking was required. A contact in the local council provided us with use of the park and ride car park on Sundays."
"We decided to hold a demo day to give everyone an understanding of the event format and the official's responsibilities. This has really been a team effort with all the clubs joining in to create a three event series. They will be sharing their experiences and supporting each other's events. Several of the organisers have been on the British Cycling Event Organisers course which has encouraged them to take the next step".
Regional Manager Chris Yates has been encouraged by the interest shown by the clubs in achieving Go-Ride status. "The day gave me the opportunity to speak to the clubs and answer their questions, creating the opportunity to understand the benefits of Go-Ride and how it can help in recruiting young members. I was able to demonstrate some of the coaching sessions we run and the techniques we use to encourage riders to develop their skills. All the riders enjoyed the session and they were soon speeding around the corners."
Talent Development Coach Ric Jamieson was on-hand to support the existing club coaches, who picked up valuable coaching tips and improved their session delivery. "I was really pleased to lend a hand and help with the development of the club coaches. Hopefully this will give them the boost to develop their own sessions. The first event in the South West Youth Series saw 54 competitors at the Chard Wheelers promotion. I'm really impressed with the way the youth scene is growing and hopefully the Exeter clubs can contribute even more riders".
The series of three events will be on the 23rd May, 6th and 20th June, registered as Go-Race. There will be events for Youth and 4th category senior riders. Using the Go-Race format enables the clubs to keep the entry fees low with £2 for youths and £6 for seniors.
There is no requirement to hold a full British Cycling racing licence, with day affiliation costing £6, or you can take the opportunity to join a British Cycling registered club and apply for a free bronze membership which will enable you to race on the day at no extra cost. The clubs believe that this will create the opportunity for people to have a go at cycle sport and progress through the club structure
