On Sunday the 1st September we supported the Manchester 100 Cycle Sportive once again. I think we have been doing it for something like 14 years (apart of course during lock-down) Its a massive event for us, it starts about 12 days prior to the event when we do a pre event course inspection run checking for road closures and any issues which would affect the riders. Usually its straight forward but this time there was a couple of closures to be dealt with and a 10 k run near the start at Wythenshawe which also affected the course in two places. Happily we were able to resolve the issues in time for the event on Sunday morning.
Then on the morning we perform a last minute opening check about 15 minutes ahead of the riders leaving the park. This is to check the signage which is installed the day before, is still in place and hasnt been tampered with and there is no overnight closures .
We also operate a 'Command & Control' facility at Whythenshawe Park base. We are in radio contact with our Safety Motorcycle Marshals and the fleet of support vehicles provided by our friends from Community 4x4 Response, all of which can be seen on a tracking screen so when we get calls for assistance or incidents we can dispatch the closest unit. We did receive a call for help from a female whose bike had broken down....we sent a nearby Support 4x4 and she was collected and taken to a rest stop within 8 minutes of her calling. At the rest stop the site bike mechanic quickly fixed the problem and she was soon able to resume the ride. She called to thank us when she reached the finish line after picking up her medal of course
Then our fleet of Safety Motos patrolled the whole course gradually moving forward as the ride progressed. They are fully equipped to assist with minor repairs and carry first aid equipment to act as First Responders should the need arise. We had a could of defibs as well. Fortunately there was absolutely no problems at all and the equipment remained in the bike panniers which is a great result.
We provided a few extra Static Marshals which were stationed at strategic junctions to ensure the safety of the riders. A photo of one of our new Statics is shown underneath....he is very efficient but doesnt say very much !
It was a great event, with no incidents and enjoyed by everyone we spoke to. Well done Bike Events for organising the Sportive as they have done for 25 years or so. Much money was raised for several charities.
Comments