GENERAL
1. During these times of social distancing and the current lack of competition across the Army Cadets, there is a gap that can be filled by virtual racing. Virtual racing allows individuals to compete against one another but in a safe way that conforms with the government’s current social distancing guidelines. To that end Army Cadet Sports has set up a virtual 70 Mile Cycle Challenge that is open for all Army Cadet personnel.
AIM:
2. The aim of this event is to provide all Army Cadets an opportunity to get involved in Sports and help build an esprit de corps and to have fun while keeping fit.
EVENT
3. This event is a cycling challenge and you will need to complete 70 miles within the month of May. The challenge is a virtual cycle ride around the Isle of Wight and you are encouraged to take scenic pictures of your ventures.
There will also be a multimedia competition. We would like Cadets and CFAVs to take photos and produce videos to showcase and introduce cycling into the Army Cadet Sports.
Once you have produced your media content, please submit it to Cambridgeshire PRO PI Stuart; 2497stuar@armymail.mod.uk
Please make sure you label your content with your name and county.
PROs are to send the media content to HQRC Media Comms team for judging.
The winning Regional winner will receive an Army Cadet Cycling Jersey and the overall winning content will win £100 voucher with https://karuta-sportswear.com
4. You will need to download Strava to your phone and log into your Club and simply start recording your cycling each time you go out. Any problems then please contact your Regional Sports Adviser.
Strava Club Names
Please make sure you enter your name and County, Battalion, Sector or School
Army Cadets Sports CFAVs www.strava.com/clubs/Army-Cadets-Cycle-CFAVs
Army Cadets Sports Cadets www.strava.com/clubs/Army-Cadets-Cycle-Cadets
EQUIPMENT
5. You can use any form of pedal power bike including static exercise bikes as long as it can be linked to STRAVA.
RULES
6. The rules for the challenge are shown below and must be adhered to especially the social distancing and safety:
- Permission and Safety of the cyclist are under the conditions set by the parent or guardian
- 70-mile challenge must be evidenced by Strava
- Social distancing guidelines MUST be adhered too by local Government Guidelines.
- Only efforts completed in May will be counted.
- Road safety is down to the Individual cyclers and MUST obey all road traffic laws if using roads.
- If any rider is using mountain bikes, then great care must be in place while riding off road.
- You are encouraged to ride with another member of the same household.
COMPETITION PRIZES
7. We don’t want to encourage the cadets to race on the open roads but do wish encourage the fun of cycling while keeping active for all.
All riders are encouraged to take artistic photographs of their personal challenge and the winning regional marketing content will win an Army Cadet Cycling Jersey.
The overall winning content will win £100 voucher with https://karuta-sportswear.com
SECURITY
8. Be aware that when uploading your Strava data will show the start location. In order to ensure that cadet personnel are not giving details of their home location then all cyclers are advised to begin their challenge 1 mile away from their home address. Guidance would be to warm up without Strava on and then start Strava at the beginning of your cycling challenge. Make sure that your cycling does not end at your home location. You can also set the privacy zones that hides the start/finish location of your ride.
SAFETY
9. All cadets are responsible for their own safety while out cycling and we encourage you to go cycling with another member of the same household. Please read the Road Safety Tips (Annex A) before setting of on your cycle ride.
‘Good Luck’
T Hayter
National Sports & Physical Development Manager
Annex A
ROAD SAFETY TIPS FOR CYCLERS
Here are some useful cycling tips for you to consider before you start your cycle route.
Permissions |
Make sure you have parent or guardian permission and always let them know your route and if possible, the times of your journey |
Plan your journey before you set off |
If you have a long ride ahead of you or if you are new to cycling and are likely to get tired before you reach your destination, alter your route to take this into account. This may mean using quiet roads or cycling facilities, such as off-road cycle paths. If you know your route well, you can plan the road ahead more effectively. |
Anticipate movements |
Some vehicles travelling in front of you may need to stop quickly so leave enough distance between you and the vehicle. Remember to take account of the road conditions and weather. |
Positioning |
To maximise your line of vision you are encouraged to cycle in a primary position. |
Monitor your speed |
It’s great to use declines to build up some speed without exerting any energy but ensure you are in control and able to avoid any oncoming vehicles in your path, cycle at a safe and consistent speed. |
Be aware and anticipate |
Always be aware of what is happening around you. |
Be seen |
Move into the primary position to pass side roads if there is any danger in order to maximise the chances of you being seen. The Highway Code advises that you should wear light-coloured or fluorescent clothing in daylight and poor light conditions it also recommends reflective clothing and/or accessories in the dark. |
Avoid filtering when it will put you in conflict with other road users |
Filtering is a useful way for cyclists to get ahead of queuing traffic. However, you should be aware when filtering past junctions as vehicles travelling in the same direction as you may give way to oncoming right turning traffic, which may well be out of your line of sight and may not be aware of your presence. Be extremely careful if passing an HGV, LGV or other long vehicle (for example, a coach or bus) on the inside. Avoid this if at all possible. |
Check for a gap in the traffic when avoiding obstructions |
If you can only avoid an obstruction by moving out into the flow of traffic, check over your right shoulder first to ensure you have room to move out. If a vehicle is travelling too close to you to allow this, slow down until you have a safe gap. |
Weather |
Adequate foul weather clothing is to be carried or worn by all personnel if required and this should be tailored to the local weather forecast. |
Consider Packing the following items for the journey |
Bike – Hybrids, road bikes or mountain bikes are all great for riding on different terrain Helmet – Protect your head in case of an accident Puncture Repair Kit – Get rolling again quick if you puncture a tyre Mini Pump – Inflate your tyre again after fixing a puncture Mini Tool – Useful for fixing mid-ride mechanical issues Hydration – Stay hydrated with water or sports drink to avoid cramp Water bottle cage & water bottle Hydration pack Nutrition – Refuel as you go so you can keep riding for longer Energy Bars Energy Gels Mobile Phone Saddle Bag or Rucksack Cycle jersey |
Finally, always remember to follow the Highway Code