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No 33, April 2004 |
The 3rd Bike North Century Challenge
A DIFFERENT ROUTE
The BNCC is on again. With changes to the routes I expect even more members to take the challenge. For some, the 60km is quite a stretch, for others who often ride 100km, the 160km route is the only worthwhile goal. The routes are hilly and I encourage you to use the Challenge to step up to a new level rather than just ride a distance you are comfortable with.
I have kept the format the same as previous years but the problem was that the 160km route was not attracting enough takers, so I designed a route that should allow a shorter overall time. The 60km route is completely new. Instead of heading south you head east from Wahroonga. Continuous riding on Mona Vale Rd is followed by the scenery in Ku-ring-gai Chase with nice long hills down and up to give that Challenge feeling. The checkpoints at Akuna Bay and Church Point are both near Cafs. The 100km route takes you to Galston, Berowra Waters and down to the Hawkesbury River. But this year you cross the bridge and make your way up Mt White before turning around back to Hornsby and Wahroonga. The last long uphill is 10km earlier than last year and riding I expect many more riders to finish this option. Our course is a challenging way to meet the classic imperial 100 mile distance.
HOW DOES THE EVENT WORK?
The BNCC is different from a normal Bike North ride and you should remember that it is NOT a competitive event in any way! The aims are to provide a ride to challenge the fitness of every member and encourage self-sufficient riding and navigation. Each rider will be given a detailed Ride Guide. The event is only open to Bike North members (of course you can become changes at different rates. a member then ride the BNCC). Self-selected Riding Groups of 2, 3 or 4 The recommended group size is 3. It members (on at least two separate is easier to Ľnd 3 people of the same cycles) ride together the whole time. ability than 4 and your group can still keep riding if one drops out.
I recommend that you form groups of riders with approximately the same Each Riding Group will start separately riding ability. It is generally a mistake for and must follow detailed directions to partners or friends of differing abilities various checkpoints (where the Ride on-the-road support, so every Riding Group must navigate and be competent to fix small mechanical problems that are likely to occur.
many people will be familiar with the return route being much the same as the popular Pie in the Sky ride. For 160km you do both routes one after the other, but with more continuous to ride together, because the stronger riders are not taking the spirit of the challenge.Talk to people on rides and try to team with people of similar abilities. And don't just choose those you rode Guide will be stamped).The group must always remain together and no group of fewer than 2 cycles will be permitted to continue in the Challenge.There are no ride leaders or sweeps and there is no
Riding Groups must operate independently and stay together (within voice contact) at all times. One slows – all slow. One stops - all stop. Groups will be allocated starting times and should not join up with other Riding Groups, but you can overtake them.
Groups will be responsible for navigating and dealing with punctures and other mechanical problems. You also have to consider time and plan your stops and speed so you return to the finish by 5pm. If withdrawing you will need to arrange your own transport via either a lift from a friend or family member or returning by public transport.You also must phone in to let us know what you have done. Each Group must pre-register using the form provided (it is also accessible from our web site) and nominate one of the three distance options.This event is FREE but you will not be able to register after Monday 19th April.
Helpers wanted for the BNCC
To run the Bike North Century Challenge on Sunday May 2 we need volunteers to staff four checkpoints and to help out at the start/finish line. Helpers can be BN members, or family members or even friends. Without helpers we can't run the event.
The tasks are simple ones. Arrive at the appointed spot. Greet and record the passing riders. Stamp their passports and give encouragement. Return when all riders are through. You will need a mobile phone, a spare half a day and some will need a car. We need at least 10 helpers. If you don't want to ride the BNCC but still want to take part then please contact Doug Stewart (9887 1478 or speedwell74@yahoo.com) for all the details.
WHERE DO I GET COFFEE?
There are no set stops along the route but plenty of options. Riding Groups should plan to stop at checkpoints, parks, or shops from the list provided. Participants are advised to stop to rest, refill bottles and to eat as appropriate. Food and drink are an essential part of riding longer distances and participants should bring and/or purchase their requirements as necessary. Please refer to Debbie Edward's excellent article in the last Chain Mail on this question.
WHAT NEXT?
To participate in the BNCC you must register by Monday April 19.There will be no on-the-day entries. I'll repeat that. You must register and there will be no on-the-day entries. For more information contact Doug Stewart (speedwell74@yahoo.com or phone 9887 1478).
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