Hi all, I'm wondering if those who have done the ride before can provide some insight/advice. My team of 5 has a caravan of supporters coming to cheer us on. I called the Ride office weeks ago to ask about cheering areas along the route and they said there was going to be an email about them. I still haven't heard anything. Will there be designated cheering spots? Any tips for those that want to cheer for riders along the way?
From the last 3 years, I'd say there are areas where they would prefer you be (camp, finish line, in towns, nearer to the pit stops and so forth)....but there are lots of places where people just set up along the side of the road to cheer.
Biggest things are to ensure that they can set up far enough off the road that they don't block the riders and that riders can still pull off if they need to.
They should find the climbs and paint your names on the road, then dress up in crazy garb and chase you up the climb waving flags and giving you helpful pushes.
Oh wait, that's the TdF...
The issue with the caravan is that the roads will be littered with cyclists, making it difficult to drive ahead after you pass them. They may want to consider that and have alternate driving routes planned when moving from spot to spot.
*Laff* Dean, there are people who do the paint (chalk) the road and pushing up hills, crazy garb and waving flags....in spots you'd almost think it was the TdF ;)
Do NOT have a caravan of people following!!! tell them to find a spot to set up - in a pullout or driveway into a field. Cheer from the lunch stop, or camp.
There are event vehicles on the route (Sweep team, motorcycle crew, taxi etc...) and if riders have their own tagalongs it gets EXTREMELY dangerous.
We had a rider removed from the ride last year because they had a 'groupie' following and blocking traffic trying to take videos and pictures.
The caravan was an exaggeration! We have some family members that want to see us along the way and I was looking for helpful information. Of course they would never endanger other riders!
It really shouldn't be a problem, but as suggested if they just pick a point along the route and go there before the ride starts it is best. Staying well out of the way during the start and first 20 km or so is wise.
The route should be announced today or tomorrow, but will likely cross on the 540. Setting up along that road somewhere would be good as the miles will start to build, and the herd will have thinned. Then they should be able to move on safely to the finish at Chain Lakes after you pass.
I might suggest that they set up on the LEFT side of the road, on an approach or side road. Then they won't be crossing the cyclist's path to get out.
You never know. We've had some pretty hairy experiences with family and friends trying to see their rider.
Definitely have them park to the left side - brilliant idea. But watch for event vehicles we do some quick stops and starts and u turns. If you stop we bug you.
The route has been up on the event info page for a few weeks now. Under registered participant drop down menu. We go south past high river then skip across, no Longview on day one.
