Since forming in early 2009 Thanet RC’s Go-Ride section has gone from stregnth to strength. Sessions are run on a weekly basis throughout most of the year, usually at the Marlowe Academy in Ramsgate, under the organisation of Colin Robinson, assisted by Richard Bazin, Steve Quincey, Tom Smoker and Steve Langnam(all are British Cycling Level 2 qualified coaches) and a number of experienced cycling volunteers from Thanet RC.
The sessions run each Saturday afternoon (for locations and times check the link from the home page). There is a charge of £2 per session. If the participant becomes a juvenile member (£6 for the year) then the session price is reduced to £1.50. Parents must complete the consent form (downloadable from Thanet RC website). We aim to cater for an age range between 6 and 16 and would love to see new riders join us to have a go.
The sessions are aimed at improving cycling skill levels using GEARS 1,2,3 and 4 of the ‘GO RIDE’ handbook, with an emphasis on simplicity, instruction is given on all the basic cycling techniques with the goal of helping riders to become confident with their bikes. However, from our experience so far, the best part about it is that it’s GREAT FUN for the riders, helpers and the mums and dads! Subjects covered include:
– Mount
– Dismount
– Pedalling
– Cornering
– Braking
– Balance and co-ordination
– Gear Selection
– Group Riding
These skills underpin almost everything that is important in cycling, whether it be for leisure or in more competitive events. Lots of our sessions employ short races, time trials and team events which are great for practising these skills.
Under British Cycling’s ‘Go Race’ format, we have also organised a number of race meetings ranging from Grasstrack, Time trials, Mountain Bike and Circuit Racing (making use of the excellent facilites at Fowlmead). The aim is to introduce younger and less experienced riders to competitive cycle racing in a friendly, non-pressured environment.
For those riders who excel at these events we can provide advice and guidance towards local, regional or even national level competition.
Contact any of the coaches for more details.