EVENTS

LONDON-PARIS Group 1: Ride Captain Top Tips

Jul 2023

JACK KIRKBY

Day job: Business Analyst
Total events: 10
Ride style: All rounder

What’s the Ride Captains’ role on the road?

The Ride Captains role on the road, first and foremost, is to keep the group safe. They are there to work with everyone to keep the pace moving, allow enjoyment of the route and navigate everyone according to time and distance.

What’s Group 1 all-about in a nutshell

A fast paced, team tempo effort where you’ll feel as though you’re part of a well oiled machine and, of course, there’s scope for some leg burning efforts and a bit of good natured competition on the race sections.

What average speed will Group 1 be aiming for?

We will be averaging around 28-30km/hour depending on weather conditions. This is not flat out but a steady tempo pace that will be set on the front.

That’s a bit faster than I manage on my own, should I be worried?

Definitely not, closed roads and group riding allow for much higher average speeds than a solo rider.

How important are group riding skills and how can I learn them?

Essential! A fast moving bunch is not the place to try and learn them so, if you mostly ride solo or in a small group, try to join some club runs or, even better, some of the Hotchillee Monthly rides.

I’m keen to compete, how does that work?

It is becoming increasingly harder and harder for Hotchillee to secure permissions to race on open roads.

This year we will have one race section each day which is a categorised Climb - where you can compete for the red jersey. There will be no timing chips - the first rider across the line wins. So if you plan on taking part, make your way to the front of the bunch when we tell you.

An accumulation of points each day will determine the overall jersey winner. More details of how this will work will be in the rider welcome pack, and described again at the start of each day.

Any big faux-pas that will put me on the wrong side of the Ride Captains?

Do not put the group or yourself in danger regardless of whether you are racing or not. Never ever cross the white line and don’t make dangerous moves to put other in danger. Anyone purposely riding in a dangerous manner will be given three warnings before being taken off the road and into the van.

What happens if I’m struggling to keep up?

First and foremost the Ride Captains will try and assist you to hang onto the group as best as they can. If you are still unable to keep up, there are multiple stops and checkpoints throughout each day to either drop down a group or jump into a van to the finish or even just for a section. We will not leave anyone on the road on their own.

What happens if I have a puncture or mechanical will I be left to fend for myself?

There’s full mechanical support but it might mean some time in the van while it gets sorted.

How important is on the bike nutrition?

Really important, especially if you’re wanting to compete for the red jersey. Don’t forget these higher intensity efforts will effect how you digest and process food so you need to practice this in training.

What’s happens post-ride each day on London to Paris?

It’s fun and social but don’t forget you have to get up and ride again the next day so, don’t overdo it.

Any tips on kit and clothing?

Pack for all potential weather conditions and check the forecast ahead of the event the day before.

Final words of wisdom

This is a great group to ride in if you’re looking to extend yourself and have some competitive fun. We are very inclusive and will teach you everything we know! So come and have some fun at the pointy end!