RIDE LEADER GUIDELINES

The Role of the Ride Leader
All Geelong Touring Cyclists must adhere to Victorian road rules and are individually responsible for riding their bikes in a safe manner. Riding in a group has additional responsibilities and challenges for all riders. In order to facilitate safe group riding, a nominated ride leader takes on the role of planning the route. On the ride day a leader is expected to navigate, make decisions in consultation with the group and facilitate the safe and orderly progress of the group.

Planning for the Ride
1. If any part of the specified ride route is unknown to you, ride (or drive) it to check for suitability, hazards, etc. The club website provides ride maps to assist with planning.
2. High risk GTC ride routes are assessed on an on-going basis and as this information is regularly reviewed.
3. It is important route distances and ride difficulty is in accord with the definitions outlined in the ‘Types of Rides and Starting Locations’ document on the webpage.
4. Inform the Web Master if changes are made to a proposed calendar ride.
5. WhatsApp is frequently used to inform members of late changes to rides. This includes ride cancellations.
6. Plan for emergencies. Install the Emergency Plus app on your mobile telephone.

Before the Ride
1. Ensure you can access the rider contact sheet either in a printed version or on your phone. The rider contact sheet lists the telephone numbers and emergency telephone numbers for all riders.
2. Count the number of riders.
3. Welcome new and guest riders. Record their telephone number and emergency contact.
4. Co-opt an experienced rider to be the ‘tail-end Charlie’. Determine how you will communicate in the event of an emergency or breakdown.
5. Explain the route and intended destination. Focus on the anticipated traffic conditions and how the group should ride. i.e. Hamilton Highway is single file only.
6. Explain that if any rider leaves the ride, they need to inform you (the leader) or the ‘tail-end Charlie’.
7. In the case of a large rider turnout, split into smaller groups and delegate small group leaders. Small group leaders to follow ride leader guidelines. Groups of 6 – 8 riders are ideal.
8. Reinforce safe riding practices for the ride, including hand signals and calling out, in accordance with the ‘GTC Rider Guidelines’ document.

During the Ride
1. Assess and monitor how the group is riding including the use of safe riding practices. On a hilly course allow riders to spread out. In windy conditions, where possible, organise riders to offer protection in small groups.
2. When in the front of the group, issue clear instructions in a loud voice and use hand signals in accord with ‘GTC Rider Guidelines’. Encourage communication within the group.
3. Ensure the pace suits the group or the sub-group.
4. Leaders may choose to ride at the front of the group or mid group.
5. Check numbers at each break. Make sure the last person to arrive is sufficiently rested before the group continues. Check how riders are feeling. Seek feedback. Communicate.
6. If you do not intend to return with the group to the allocated finishing point then nominate another person to conclude the ride.

After the Ride
1. Account for all riders.
2. If there has been an incident/accident or a near miss during the ride, complete the Incident Report form that can be found on the webpage and forward it to the Secretary ASAP. If you didn’t witness the event, ascertain the relevant details and make sure a report is submitted.
3. Invite feedback on any aspect of the ride.
4. Send a brief ride report and any photographs taken to the Web Master including the names of all participants, preferably in first name alphabetical order

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