- What time does it start?
- Can I enter on the day?
- What is the last date to enter the Bikeathon?
- What type of bike do I have to have?
- When will I receive my rider pack and t-shirt?
- Are the routes suitable for children?
- What lengths are the routes?
- Do I need to memorise the route or take a map?
- Are there marshals along the route?
- What happens if my bike breaks or I get a puncture during the Bikeathon?
- Are there any hills on the routes?
- How fit do I need to be to do the Bikeathon?
- How do I get sponsored?
- How do I pay in my sponsor money?
- Where can I get hold of more sponsor forms?
- How do I get to the start venue?
- Where can I park?
- How long will it take to complete the Bikeathon?
- Will there be refreshments available on the day?
- I can’t cycle but would like to participate is there anything else I can do?
- What happens at the Finish?
1. What time does it start?
52 mile ride between 8.00am and 9.00am
26 mile ride between 10:00am and 11:00am
13 mile ride between 11:00am and 12:00pm
Cyclists are set off in groups with a 5 minute gap to avoid congestion. If the computer generated time does not suit contact Bob (01625 859497 or bob@macclesfieldbikeathon.co.uk) and we'll do our best to accommodate.
2. Can I enter on the day?
It will cost £15 per rider to enter the Bikeathon.
3. What is the last date to enter the Bikeathon?
The last date to enter is the 9th May, this allows us time to process and post your pack out. You can apply up to midday on the 14th May but these packs will have to be picked up on the day
4. What type of bike do I have to have?
Your bike must be roadworthy, we can’t let people with stabilisers ride and require that bikes are suitable for the course (if unsure contact Bob). We welcome all sorts of bikes, tandems, unicycles, recumbents, three wheelers – the more the merrier! Check out Highway Code relating to cyclists www.highwaycode.gov.uk/cyclists.htm for more information.
5. When will I receive my rider pack and t-shirt?
You should receive your rider pack a.s.a.p after your application
6. Are the routes suitable for children?
Yes, however children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult on the course. Those under 16 must have a parent/guardian sign the parental permission section of the entry form to take part. The 52m route is challenging and in the interests of health and safety, children under 12 will be excluded.
7. What lengths are the routes?
We have three routes to suit all needs ...
Choose from the following 3 distances:
13 Miles: Ideal for all ages and abilities
26 Miles: More challenging but suitable for most
52 Miles: Recommended for experienced cyclists only
8. Do I need to memorise the route or take a map?
No, the route will be signposted and heavily marshalled throughout, you won't get lost!
9. Are there marshals along the route?
Yes there will be static and cycling marshals throughout the route with St. John's Ambulance Service supported by Raynet communications. Our priority is that you have a fantastic day, and remain safe throughout the ride. When planning the Bikeathon we consult all the relevant authorities including the police and ambulance services.
10. What happens if my bike breaks or I get a puncture during the bikeathon?
We have a bike repair man available who can give you hand at the start. Either Raynet communication will spot you and tell us or just contact one of the marshals who will get in touch with him. You will have to pay for parts but labour is free!
11. Are there any hills on the routes
The 13 mile route has a few gentle hills, the 26 mile route has a few bigger ones and the 52 mile route should only be attempted by experienced cyclists.
12. How fit do I need to be to do the Bikeathon?
The Bikeathon is a fun cycle ride - it is not a race! So it doesn't matter what speed you cycle at. It is worth trying to do a bit of cycling before the event, especially if you have not been on a bike for a while!
13. How do I get sponsored?
Contact everyone you know and get them to pledge to sponsor you - if possible ask for the sponsorship money as it saves you going round a second time! Don't forget to email people you may only see occasionally!
14. How do I pay in my sponsor money?
You will receive a paying in slip with your rider pack. This is unique to you, if you need another one let us know and we will arrange to send one out to you. You can pay your sponsorship money in at any branch of RBOS Bank or send a cheque made out to the Macclesfield Bikeathon with your paying in slip to:
Macclesfield Bikeathon
51 Sunderland St,
Macclesfield
Cheshire
SK11 6HN
15. Where can I get hold of more sponsor forms?
All sponsor forms have a unique reference number on them, please email us and we will send the sponsor forms straight to you.
16. How do I get to the start venue?
Take a look at the map.
17. Where can I park?
There are a number of public car parks available in Macclesfield and the event will be signposted from the Churchill Way car park. Number 4 on the map.
18. How long will it take to complete the Bikeathon?
The 13 miles route and should take around an hour, depending on how fast you cycle - it is not a race though and should be a fun day out so don't worry if it takes you longer than that!
19. Will there be refreshments available on the day
Yes, there will be juice and biscuits available at the checkpoints. All participants will receive a meal voucher at the finish to be exchanged on the day at All Seasons Restaurant.
20. I can't cycle but would like to participate is there anything else I can do?
Yes! Come along and cheer or volunteer on the day. We are always looking for people who can help. If you are interested please email your contact details to me: bob@macclesfieldbikeathon.co.uk
21. What happens at the Finish?
We present you with a Macclesfield Bikeathon medal to prove to your sponsors that you have completed the course. After parking your bike safely in the designated area, you will receive a meal voucher and a choice of food (one of which will be suitable for veggies). Then relax and bask in your triumph whilst watching live entertainment in the Town Hall square. |