Sunday, 31 December 2023
Angela W writes: The club's rides are dependent on volunteer leaders, so why not make it your New Year's resolution to lead a ride in 2024? If more people lead, the club can continue to offer a good range of ride options, without relying on the goodwill of a small number of people.
I had my first experience of leading a ride recently and found it more straightforward than I imagined. Having heard John Seton, the club secretary, mention that more leaders were needed, I decided it was about time that I put myself forward. As a regular Saturday morning rider, I felt confident that I know the routes, but there is also a route library available to help with planning. While I had some qualms about my lack of bike repair skills, John reassured me that experience in bike mechanics isn't a requirement for the role.
I also had some reservations about the responsibility of managing a large group of riders. John suggested that I complete an online course from Cycling UK to get a better idea of what is involved. This took less than 90 minutes and was clear and easy-to-use. It covered areas such as planning and keeping the group safe. It was all common sense but helped to build my confidence. On completion, you get a certificate that never expires. I was then registered as a ride leader and added to the club's ride leader email forum. I put myself forward to lead my first ride in November, to The Hub in Melbourn.
12 riders booked on the ride, and we set off on a lovely sunny day, with another experienced leader acting as backmarker and providing additional support. Within a mile of Brookside, one rider suffered a tyre blowout and had to drop out, which wasn't the best of starts. But from then on, everything went smoothly. The main challenge was keeping the group together, but this just meant stopping a few times to let everyone catch up. The admin side of the role was very straightforward.
If you are interested in leading a ride for the first time or if you haven't led one for a while, contact John Seton, secretary@ctccambridge.org.uk, or Rupert Goodings, the runs secretary, runs@ctccambridge.org.uk, to volunteer. Leaders are needed for all ride types and you can choose ones that suit you. If you'd like flexibility in the start place, time or destination, then contact Rupert with your suggestions. You will, of course, be supported by an experienced leader to help you get started. You can find more information in the guidance for leaders.