AGM wrap up

Despite the current ‘cost of living challenges’ facing all community events, Bike Manawatu is 100% committed to ensuring the 51st year of the Novice Tour – once again provides a safe, fun, competitive cycle racing event.

We will adopt a high-quality assured approach in implementing the Local Roading Authority’s/Cycling New Zealand’s ‘Safe Traffic Management System’ (STMS) standards which ensure best practices and rider and spectator safety.

If the level of community funding secured is not sufficient to contract in external road management service providers with the ability to stop/go traffic, the Novice Tour will proceed on a ‘local club racing’ model, whereby our team of trained/experienced road marshals will, where necessary, pause racing in order to give way to traffic and ensure rider safety.

Although funding external road management services with the ability to stop/go traffic is ideal, if this is not feasible – we are confident that the event’s ‘Safe Traffic Management System’ (STMS) will provide a competitive, fair, enjoyable and importantly safe racing environment.

Irrespective of which model of traffic management/racing is finalised, as with all CNZ/Bike Manawatu events, normal road rules will apply and a full rider briefing confirming the event rules will be provided to all riders prior to the start of each race.

Last Thursday , at the Marist Clubrooms Bike Manawatu held it’s first AGM. There was a very good turnout and the feeling from those present was one of positivity and good progress being made on several fronts. Importantly , two new Board members were elected form the three nominations made. Oiroa Kaihau and Andrew Ward are now elected Board members and we look forward to their contribution going forward. Mike Christie missed selection by a narrow margin. Mike has already thrown himself into one of our ‘ working groups’. Thanks for that Mike.

Good luck for all of our members riding the club nationals today, tomorrow and the weekend. We have a record level of entries across all categories. Thanks also to those who have put up their hand to act as ‘ manager” on the various days of competition.

There has been some “feedback’ from members around better communication and “connection” with the Sunday ride groups. This is seen as a vital part of the club and these concerns will be addressed. Some positive solutions have been offered. In the mean time make sure that you set aside the weekend of May 15th for the Manfeild 6 Hour Challenge…organise your teams and entries to ensure that the event is a success.

The Membership Group is also looking at a mid year function/social event. We look forward to that….keep your calendar open during the “ off bike” period June /July.

And finally. Waikato have hit a very hard place in their bid to win the CCoE. SPARC are still considering their options, whatever they might be. It is clear to us here in the Manawatu what their only option is. We await their decision, due tomorrow Friday 6th May.

Paul van Velthooven