Our first Go Ride event took place at Banbury Rugby Club’s, Bodicote Park ground on Saturday, which was well organised by Lee Heron and Katherine Daniels, with local British Cycling Go Ride co-ordinator, Catherine Ruffley, on hand to help us.
This test event was deliberately kept small and manageable with nine children, aged between around 8 to 13 years, who spent two hours on their bikes in cool and wet conditions. They were put through a series of drills and exercises, designed to improve their bike handling skills and confidence when riding alone and in pairs. Even a short time trial type event was laid on at the end.
The smiles and enthusiasm displayed by the children showed we pitched it at exactly the right level and now can plan the full inaugural event for the 21st April where we expect a large turnout.
Go Ride is running in over 300 clubs throughout the country and has a proven track record in identifying and nurturing the track and road stars of the future. The possibilities it offers the club are exciting, as our own research shows there’s a huge, untapped group of children in our region who will flourish with what we can offer. Other clubs have seen families become involved and membership increase.
If you’d like to be part of Go Ride by helping out as a volunteer, even on an occasional basis, please get in touch with either Katherine, Lee, Paul or Roger. The Go-Ride contact email address is goride@banburystar.co.uk