Organising an event

How to become an organiser.

To organise Audax UK events you need to be registered as an approved Audax UK organiser and you should meet a few basic criteria:

• All organisers of Audax UK events must be members of Audax UK for insurance reasons.
• Ideally you should have the backing of a local club or CTC Member Group to help with the organisation.
• Event details are entered and managed through the Audax UK Online Event Planner, so you will also need internet access to use this and e-mail to communicate with the Events Team.

Audax UK operates a grading scheme for organisers based on experience and length of events. All new organisers and those upgrading to run a longer event at the next organising level also need a mentor, who has recent experience of organising events at or above the new level. The Events Team will help you find someone to be your mentor.

If you’re interested in organising your first event, get in touch with the Events Secretary or your Regional Delegate. You can find more information in the Organiser's Guide.

Planning an event.

Audax UK events take many forms, from “bare bones” events where riders meet in a car park, take “power-naps” in bus shelters or 24hr service stations and post their completed brevet cards home afterwards; to fully catered events with village halls for controls offering food and sleep facilities staffed round the clock by teams of volunteers.

There is no single formula for what makes a good event, but here are some pointers to help you get started:

• Avoid clashes with established classic events and other nearby events (both in the Audax UK Calendar and other cycling events).
• Taking over the running of an established event in your area is a good way to get started in organising and build up your skills and network of helpers.
• If you’re planning a new event, start with a 200km event and use the Populaires (50, 100 & 150km) as supporting events to encourage novices. Remember the aim is to encourage riders to go on to longer events through the Randonneur 500, 1000 and Super Randonneur series.
• An interesting and scenic route. Some events attract riders because they are easy, others because they are a challenge; but a good route is fundamental to any successful event. 
• Use your Audax UK Calendar listing to give potential riders plenty of information about your event and what you’re offering. Make sure your routesheet is clear and accurate and joining instructions are sent to riders well in advance so they know what to expect before the event. 
• Publicise your events. There are few new events with a ready made clientele so you will need to work to build up interest in your event. Lots of publicity for your event with local cycling clubs and bike shops; and on internet forums will help raise the profile of your event.