2015 Ride Leaders

Ride leaders can't always be present - for example with this weekend's race. For the sake of clarity and simplicity generally the ride leaders and alternates for 2015 are:

Le Grand Depart
-Howard and Gary

Fast Group
Leader: Gary S
Alternates (in no particular order): Tom G, Marc F, Tim F, Gary E

Classic Group
Leader: Howard R
1st Alternate: Marcel F
Alternates (in no particular order): Alex R, John A
At times leaders from the fast group may lead the classic group

Combined Group
Leaders: Gary and Howard
Alternates (in no particular order): Tom G, Marc F, Marcel F, Alex R, John A, Tim F, Gary E

The ride leader will determine the nature of the ride, the route, where stops occur, etc. with help from the alternates.

For all groups the pace will be gentle over the bridge to the first set of lights. The pace in calm conditions* will be kept to 30 kph till Lockport. The pace does change markedly after Lockport for both groups. Essentially the goal of the Classic group is to ride at a nice steady high 30's pace. Efforts are made to keep everyone together, but it is NOT a no drop ride and it is every rider's responsibility to ensure they are fit enough and have the skills to ride at this pace in a group. The goal of the fast group is somewhat more aggressive: to ride as fast as most, but not necessarily all of the group can maintain. Riders are expected to be more self-sufficient and dropping the odd person is not unexpected. Re-grouping for both groups will generally take place at Lockport, Big Bridge, Lockport heading south, and BHP.

*with a strong tail wind, be prepared for the pace to pick up somewhat and with a strong head wind for it to drop a bit.

Endurance Group?
At one time we had and endurance group that rode at a slightly more gentle pace than the classic group i.e closer to 35 kph after Lockport. I can definitely see a place for such a group. Is there any interest from club members in this?