Everything you need to know about entering the 2011 BNCC

Just like any serious self-improvement plan, there are ten steps to preparing for the BNCC. Event organiser Doug Stewart explains what you need to do to take the Challenge.

1. Get excited! This is the best cycle event for Bike North members. It covers the best cycling roads, is not a crowded mass event, has the most challenges, is right on our doorstep and is completely free of charge. Nothing else compares with our own event, so if you only do one big event this is the one.
2. Note the conditions. This is NOT a competitive event. It is designed to offer a chance to extend beyond your normally preferred distance and terrain. Remember that you and your team are riding together without support along a defined route that you navigate yourself at your own pace.
3. Mark the date in your diary. On this tenth year we revert to our standard date Sunday 1st of May, 2011. This is a great time of year - the Autumn cycling weather is cool but not cold, and there's enough daylight.
4. Choose your ride option from Three Hills - 60km; Five Hills - 100km; or Eight Hills - 160km. (See next page for the Overview of Routes.) We particularly encourage riders to take the 60km option as a step up from our Easy-Medium and Medium rides. The hills in this event are longer but mostly not as steep as many of those on easier BN rides.
5. Choose your team of 2, 3 or 4 people of similar riding ability and a sense of teamwork. You will stay in this team up hill and down dale, helping each other with the physical and mental challenges of the day. And of course you'll share your successes at the end. You must find a team yourself and the best way is to chat to others on rides or use the Bike North Chat email list.
6. Pre-Register on the BNCC Registration Form by Friday 15 April. Pre-registration by this date is compulsory and there are no on-the-day entries. The BNCC is a FREE event for members only, but new members can join and then ride, so tell your friends about the BNCC and Bike North.
7. Get on your bike and train. The event is designed to be a challenge for all riders, so get in the spirit and challenge yourself. With your team chosen, you can help each other train and stretch yourself to a new level. Ride as many Bike North rides as you can, or train on your own, or in events. The Easter Tour de Cowra is a great way to finish off your training and taper down.
8. Prepare your bike for the day. All bikes must be in tip-top condition so a pre-event service is strongly recommended. It is essential to carefully inspect your tyres and your brake blocks, which should be replaced if showing signs of excessive wear.
9. BNCC Eve: eat and drink properly the day before and prepare all the necessary items (see next page for What to Bring). On the day: attend the ride briefing and head off at a steady pace, stopping for food and drink as you see fit.
10. Finish the ride and then stay around for the post-ride BBQ and celebrations. Your non-riding friends and family can welcome you in and join in the fun. Cheer on all the others who finish after you.