OFFICIAL
MAG A Z INE
OF
THE
PRUD E NTIAL
RID E LONDON -SURREY
46
PROGRAMME & FINAL INSTRUCTIONS S U N D AY 3 0 J U LY 2 0 1 7
INSIDE
● ●
RIDE DAY INFO ● ESSENTIAL RULES OF THE ROAD ● LOVE WHERE YOU RIDE SPORTIVE MEDICAL ADVICE ● THE LONDON MARATHON CHARITABLE TRUST COMMUNICATE
Slow Look
Think
Communicate
LOOK THINK
Uneven Surface Look
Think
Communicate
1 Mile
Cyclists Merging Look
@RideLondon
Think
Communicate
#ReasonToRide
24
PRL // Contents
30
OFFICIAL
MAG A Z INE
OF
THE
PRUD E NTIAL
RID E LONDON -SURREY
46
PROGRAMME & FINAL INSTRUCTIONS O ffi c i al Magaz i ne of the Prudenti al R i deL ondon-Surrey 4 6 | Jul y 2017
S U N D AY 3 0 J U LY 2 0 1 7
INSIDE
● ●
RIDE DAY INFO ● ESSENTIAL RULES OF THE ROAD ● LOVE WHERE YOU RIDE SPORTIVE MEDICAL ADVICE ● THE LONDON MARATHON CHARITABLE TRUST COMMUNICATE
Slow Look
Think
Communicate
LOOK THINK
26
Uneven Surface Look
Think
Communicate
1 Mile
Cyclists Merging Look
@RideLondon
Think
Communicate
#ReasonToRide
PRUDENTIAL RIDELONDON-SURREY 46 London & Surrey Cycling Partnership LLP 190 Great Dover Street, London SE1 4YB Tel: 020 7902 0212 Online: PrudentialRideLondon.co.uk The Prudential RideLondonSurrey 46 programme is produced by the London & Surrey Cycling Partnership LLP
OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE PRUDENTIAL RIDELONDON-SURREY 46
JULY 2017
KEEP IN TOUCH /RideLondon
@RideLondon
/RideLondon
19
26
This all-important guide will take you step by step from rider registration to the Finish Line
Follow these simple principles to ensure you and your fellow riders have an amazing day
New bike trails funded by The London Marathon Charitable Trust have opened in Osterley
RULES OF THE ROAD
HAPPY TRAILS
13
24
30
Familiarise yourself with the 46 miles of traffic-free tarmac all 5,000 of you are about to enjoy
You’ll ride through a stunning part of the UK and we want to keep it that way. Here’s how you can help
Our medical director wants to make sure you are fit and able to take on your 46-mile challenge
YOUR RIDE ROUTE
prudentialridelondon.co.uk
Editor: Alison Hamlett
Advertising: Dani Nimmock & Nyali Friend Writer: Danny Coyle Web Manager: Jason Ochoa Web Admin: Jamie Dunn
04
FINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Publisher: Andrew Torr
LOVE WHERE YOU RIDE
DOCTOR’S ORDERS
Layout: Matt Dungate, Matt Gregory, Callum Robertson, Federica Sanchi, Ella Simpson, Ben Whitworth & Jon Woods Printed by: Helios Graphics All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of this magazine without written permission is strictly forbidden. © Copyright 2017 London & Surrey Cycling Partnership LLP All images courtesy of Bob Martin Photography unless otherwise stated.
PRUDENTIAL RIDELONDON // 03
04
Rider Registration
FINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Rider Registration Your main aim between now and Ride Day on Sunday 30 July is to plan your weekend and collect your rider documents from the Prudential RideLondon Cycling Show. The following pages will explain how to do this
Collecting your rider number
Failure to comply with these instructions may lead to your rider documents not being issued. Please note: an individual can only pick up one set of rider documents in addition to their own.
You will have received your registration form, which shows your rider number, with this magazine. DO NOT LOSE THIS FORM. You will need it to collect your rider documents and kitbag when you register for the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46 at ExCeL in east London. YOU MUST BRING PHOTOGRAPHIC IDENTIFICATION – PASSPORT OR DRIVING LICENCE – WITH YOU TO COLLECT YOUR RIDER DOCUMENTS. THE FORM RATION REGI ST ACCEPTANCE SLIP SENT TO YOU IN MAY IS NOT VALID. YOU MUST
TO COLLECT WITH YOU LICENCE) 2017 OR DRIVING JULY (PASSPO RT BETWEE N 27-29 PHOTO ID 29 JULY FORM AND REGISTR ATION, CLOSE AT 17:00 ON BRING THISRIDER NUMBER AT WILL CENTRE EXCEL YOUR AT THE NOTE:
RIDER
NUMB ERS
TRANS ARE NOT
FERAB
LE UNDER
MSTAN ANY CIRCU
CES
Dock, London, Royal Victoria Centre, Light Railway) Exhibition (Docklands ExCeL Northern, journey place at te DLR to the Central, 100 takes a three-minu directly n-Surrey Town via RideLondo is also connectedHill via the DLR. Prudential line at Canning ExCeL Tower n for the to the Jubilee lines at east entrance. Registratio for the District is connected Circle and ExCeL Prince Regent and the E16 1XL. station at Bank do so work. dedicated asked to building & City lines to ExCeL’s due to sign it until will be and Waterloo is closed Do NOT 100 you Circle, District number. DLR station n-Surrey House your rider RideLondo Custom NOTE: part when collecting ng in the Prudential to take signed is to be of my inability and By participati I consent . declaration in the event numbers. rule that, issuing by a substitute. The following and conditions email and Committee to be used n scrutineer by both these terms r’s the Organising my rider number image proofs to accept by a registratio resulting permit that I accept the photographe its me the lly deemed allow or form and area on LLP and to send I will not on this automatica in a general named event and Partnership July 2017,
YOUR RIDER
On the reverse of your registration form you will find a charity survey questionnaire. Please complete this section before you arrive at Registration.
TION REGISTRA
NUMBER:
the 30 of my be placed the rider Cycling 100 on record of me during that I am & Surrey identifiable -Surrey any other I declare to London photographs data or RideLondon is not readily r to take number recordings, my permission in the Prudential my rider I grant photographe pictures, for which n. , motion of myself. the official photos that photos remuneratio request additional without to use photographs I also request others purpose and locate by post. authorise might try by event any legitimate to use or where I 100 for or collected website -Surrey and licensees rider number assigns RideLondon LLP in connection on my sponsors, entered Partnership in the Prudential or after Cycling information TION ill during participation I & Surrey medical INFORMA London If I become (including or hospital, by the USE OF doctor information. information Cycling disclosed or any ION AND personal & Surrey of statistical used and stored, John Ambulance of the London COLLECT and agree that my compilation can be staff, St e for the Director the Event) Event and event medical I acknowledg or after to the Medical n of the either from staff during treatment) medical and administratio or treatment of medical attention details organisation medical (including with the receive my details and/or to provide the Event her/him. .... persons by such ................. n) authorised authorise others ................. LLP or at Registratio ................. Partnership 100 Scrutineer
................. ................. RideLondon-Surrey
.................
for your make up s: injury, to (In instruction illness or simple 100 through 29 follow these n-Surrey Saturday that you RideLondo 20:00 on 2017? providing l form by to the dates RIDE IN from the 2017 Prudentialfor the 2018 event, withdrawa or you adhere CAN’T entry the online via a charity l. Providing to withdraw you an and complete was received If you have for withdrawa will guarantee /withdraw your entry ment we your application event unless ndon.co.uk disappoint 2018 confirming entialridelo for the an email naccepted Go to www.prud then be sent will be RideLondo You will e fee, you July 2017. 2018 Prudential Monday appropriat for the event. between pay the the 2016 entry form 7902 0212 date below and over from on 020 closing a guaranteed or carried link for entry. The our helpdesk sponsor, ity to an email the 2018 telephone responsibil in loss of will receive it date, please will result 2017 you is the cyclist’s by this date as to do so 2017. It 2 October closing from us failure this – October heard by 16 2017 By Monday have not entry fee on Monday 13 October the 2018 100. If you is 17:00 Friday Surrey and paid later than entry form and no entry form or sold. guaranteed 2 October to be transferred online guarantee of the online are not their 2018 . Entries for completion ces. completed to Registration circumstan they have you come ensure under any before reverse be extended on the will not Survey
SIGNED
the presence
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of a Prudential
complete
the Charity
While preferring you to register in person, we recognise that in some cases this may not be possible, so you can nominate someone to collect your rider documents for you. The person you nominate must have the following: a letter written and signed by you, authorising that person – by name – to collect your rider documents. You must also sign your registration form before handing it to them AND PROVIDE THEM WITH A CLEAR PHOTOCOPY OF YOUR DRIVING LICENCE OR PASSPORT SHOWING YOUR NAME AND SIGNATURE.
YOUR RIDER DOCUMENTS Your rider documents consist of a rider card, body number, handlebar number, frame sticker and kitbag sticker. Take care of your rider documents and fill in the medical information on the reverse side of the body number. Once you have separated your rider documents, do not deface or modify them in any way, and please note that duplicate numbers cannot be issued under any circumstances. YOUR KITBAG When you register you will be given an envelope containing your rider documents, including an adhesive kitbag sticker. You will also be given a drawstring Ride Day kitbag (see above). The sticker must be fixed to the front of the kitbag on the area indicated. You will use this kitbag for your belongings on Ride Day. You simply hand in the kitbag at the correct baggage lorry at the Start and it will be waiting for you to collect at the Finish.
The person collecting your rider documents should have suitable identification, such as their passport or driving licence, with them.
@RideLondon
Rider Registration
05
What if I am ill or injured?
Check List
the registration clerk and provide photographic ID. With your rider documents and kitbag, you will also be given a set of final instructions. Please read them carefully. FREEBIES When you register you will receive vouchers to collect a free water bottle, courtesy of Prudential, and a pair of tyre levers, courtesy of Continental Tyres.
You will need to bring the following along with you to Registration: AA
AA
Your registration form This is the form that you received with this magazine. It has your rider number on it. Valid photo ID A driving licence or passport.
WHERE TO REGISTER You must register and collect your rider documents before Ride Day. Registration is at the Prudential RideLondon Cycling Show, which will take place at ExCeL in east London. The address is: ExCeL 1 Western Gateway Royal Victoria Dock London E16 1XL YOU CAN REGISTER AT THE FOLLOWING TIMES: AA AA AA
Thursday 27 July Friday 28 July Saturday 29 July
10:00 – 20:00 10:00 – 20:00 09:00 – 17:00
You will be asked to sign the declaration on your registration form in front of prudentialridelondon.co.uk
HOW TO GET TO EXCEL ExCeL is connected to the Jubilee line at Canning Town via a four-minute Docklands Light Railway (DLR) journey to Prince Regent station. Visitors then have a two minute walk along a covered walkway to the entrance. Please note that Custom House station is closed until December 2017. If you don’t have a contactless bankcard, we strongly advise that you use an Oyster card or purchase a return ticket as ticket-purchasing facilities are limited at ExCeL. All valid London Underground tickets are accepted on the DLR. Please try to register on Thursday if you live in or around London, as it will be busier on Friday and Saturday with cyclists coming from further afield. After registering, take some time to look around the Prudential RideLondon Cycling Show; there will be lots to do and see as well as plenty of opportunity to check out the latest cycling products. If you travel to ExCeL by bicycle, there will be bicycle storage facilities at the Prudential RideLondon Cycling Show (see page six for more details).
You must be fit and well to ride 46 miles. Severe exertion during or soon after any kind of fever is extremely dangerous. See the medical advice starting on page 30 for more details on health and cycling. Do not take any chances with your health: if you find yourself in this situation you must withdraw (see below). Another chance... To compensate for your disappointment if you have to withdraw your entry through illness or injury, we will guarantee you an entry to the 2018 event providing that you follow the simple instructions below. IF YOU ARE ILL OR INJURED AND YOU WISH TO WITHDRAW, THIS IS WHAT YOU MUST DO: Go to prudentialridelondon. co.uk/withdraw-46 and complete the online withdrawal form by 20:00 on Saturday 29 July 2017. You will then be sent an email confirming your application for withdrawal. Providing you adhere to the following dates and pay the 2018 entry fee, you will be accepted for the 2018 Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46 unless your entry was received via a charity or sponsor. By Monday 2 October 2017 you will receive an email link for a guaranteed entry form for the 2018 Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46. If you have not heard from us by this date, please telephone our helpdesk on 020 7902 0212 between Monday 2 October and no later than Friday 13 October 2017 – failure to do so will result in the loss of the 2018 entry. The closing date for completion of the online guaranteed entry form is 17:00 on Monday 16 October 2017. It is the cyclist’s responsibility to ensure they have completed their 2018 online guaranteed entry form and paid the 2018 entry fee by this closing date as the deadline for withdrawal will not be extended under any circumstances.
06
Visiting the Cycling Show
FINAL INSTRUCTIONS
The Prudential RideLondon Cycling Show 2017
Sports massage
The Cycling Show You don’t have to be a professional cyclist or Olympic gold medallist to benefit from a sports massage and, as you ease off the training in the week preceding the sportive, a session on the table would be a great addition to your preparation. Not only will your muscles respond better after treatment, but a little pampering will also relax you before Ride Day and help calm any nerves you may have. With sessions at just £15 for 15 minutes or £30 for half an hour, don’t waste this opportunity – come along and let one of our 20 therapists look after you.
With a theme of ‘inspiration’, the Prudential RideLondon Cycling Show will connect and inspire cyclists and would-be riders of all ages and abilities. Entry to the 2017 Prudential RideLondon Cycling Show at ExCeL is FREE, so bring your family and friends – and tell all your cycling companions, even if they’re not taking part in this year’s ride. Many of the major cycling brands will be represented, as well as a multitude of other exhibitors who will be showing and selling everything from designer water bottles to the latest must-have devices. One of the biggest stands will be devoted to Prudential RideLondon merchandise, including this year’s range of souvenir and technical clothing. With personal appearances at the Show from top professional riders, who will be taking part in the Prudential RideLondon
Classique and the Prudential RideLondonSurrey Classic, the atmosphere at the show will be unparalleled. The Centre Stage will feature a programme of informative presentations throughout the day, offering invaluable cycling advice, interviews with celebrities and pro riders, and a variety of entertainment. See the panel on page seven for more details. With more than 10,000 visitors each weekday and up to 15,000 on Saturday, you may want to consider registering in the week to avoid the crowds on Saturday. If you plan to visit on Saturday, before 11:00 is the quietest time. BIKE PARK We welcome visitors on their bikes and while bikes are not allowed in the Show itself, we offer a free secure storage facility. Drop off your bike at Door N1 before you enter the Show at Door N2.
CYCLING SHOW OPENING TIMES AA AA AA
Thursday 27 July 10:00-20:00 Friday 28 July 10:00-20:00 Saturday 29 July 09:00-17:00
PlusBike
If you’re travelling to Prudential RideLondon by rail with a bike, use National Rail’s PlusBike info to help you plan with ease. Visit nationalrail. co.uk/PlusBike to find out more.
@RideLondon
Visiting the Cycling Show
07
FINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Who’s at the Show? Make sure you spend some time browsing the stands at the Cycling Show for great products and services for cyclists
On Centre Stage
Cycling Show exhibitors Make sure you visit Centre Stage at the Prudential RideLondon Cycling Show. Highlights will include exclusive interviews with top sports stars and celebrities from the music industry who will be taking on the 100 or 46-mile ride alongside you. We are also delighted that cycling legend Sir Chris Hoy will be returning to the show in addition to pro-rider Alex Dowsett, ambassador for Bloodwise, the 2017 Prudential RideLondon Charity of the Year.
Active Root Alton Sports Fourmarks Alzheimer’s Society Anthony Nolan Endurance Conspiracy Beating Bowel Cancer Beet It Sport Bliss Bloodwise Breast Cancer Now British Heart Foundation Brompton Bicycle Cafe Coppi Europe Ltd Cancer Research UK Children with Cancer UK Clif Bar & Company Continental Crankalicious Cycle Care Cycology Travel Ltd ERV International Travel Insurance Evans Cycles Extra UK
GEOBIKE GFNY MONT VENTOUX Grapefruit Ltd Grn Sportswear High5 Sports Nutrition IFIVE DISTRIBUTION LTD Pedalcover Insurance Centre Stage Stunt Display Team Massage SRAM Corporation Europe Test Track Macmillan Cancer Support Nestle Waters UK Ltd Nrg4 Ltd Paligap Ltd Pinpoint Consumer Electronics Ltd Precision Hydration Promoción Exterior de Lanzarote, S.A Prostate Cancer UK Pro Vision Clothing Ltd
Prudential Rooie Ltd T/A GU Energy UK Scimitar Sports UK Ltd Scope Sealskinz Silhouette UK Ltd Silverfish UK Ltd Spinal Injuries Association Sports Tours International SRAM Corporation Europe TDA Global Cycling The Chia Charge Company Limited The Royal British Legion The Stick / RPI of Atlanta The Cycling Company TORQ LTD Transport for London Upgrade Bikes Ltd WL Gore & Associates (UK) Ltd
Please note that you will receive a Cycling Show floorplan and exhibitors’ list when you collect your rider number.
prudentialridelondon.co.uk
The remarkable story that was made into successful documentary Fixing Dad and aired on the BBC last year is the inspiration behind this year’s Fixing Challenge campaign. Our competitionwinning Fixees will be coming to the Cycling Show alongside filmmaker Anthony Whitington, to share their inspiring stories about how cycling and training for the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100 has positively changed their lives. Don’t miss the Experts’ Show, which is repeated throughout each day every two hours. You will get top advice to help you make the most of Ride Day, including fuelling on the ride from sports nutritionist Anita Bean. Check out the full Centre Stage timetable online at
PrudentialRidelondon.co.uk/ centre-stage.
08
Before Leaving Home
FINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Attaching your numbers
Before Leaving Home What to bring with you, how to get to the start and what to expect once you set out on the 46-mile sportive route
Before Leaving Home At the beginning of July we sent you an email containing your start area colour, wave, wave loading times and your actual start time. You will need to consider this information when planning your journey to the Start Line in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park on the morning of the sportive. If you did not receive this email or are unsure of any of the above details, please call our helpdesk on 020 7902 0212. The start of the event covers a vast area and it is expected to take at least an hour to use the facilities and get ready for your specific wave loading time. Please take special note of your wave loading opening and closing times and allow yourself plenty of time to get there. Before you leave for the start, make sure you have the following items with you: AA
Rider card. Detach this card from your rider numbers and bring it along as a handy guide to your start time
AA
AA AA AA AA
AA AA AA
AA AA
AA
Handlebar number, frame sticker, body number (all mandatory) and helmet sticker attached to your bike, jersey and helmet Full water bottles and food (gels, bars etc) Spare inner tubes/pump/tyre levers/repair kit/tools Helmet (mandatory) Money – in case you want to stop for refreshments at a village shop or cake stall along the route, or for some reason need to take the train home Sun cream – if it’s sunny! Bike lights – if you leave before sunrise (05:21) Booking confirmation emails if you have pre-booked anything from the Transport Options email (ie car park space) Cycling shoes (if arriving by car/ being dropped off) Map to help you find your way back to your car/accommodation after the event. Visit tfl.gov.uk/ ridelondon to plan your journey And event kitbag, if required …oh, and don’t forget your bike!
HOW TO ATTACH YOUR BODY NUMBER, HANDLEBAR NUMBER & FRAME STICKER TO YOU AND YOUR BIKE Every single rider will be accurately timed by means of an ID tag on the back of your handlebar number, which must be attached to your handlebars. When you cross the official Start Line of the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46, you will pass a timing point that will register your time as you pass it. There is another timing point at the Finish Line on The Mall. Official times will be based on the elapsed time taken by each rider between the Start Line and the Finish Line. It is your responsibility to attach your body number to the back of your jersey/ jacket, your frame sticker to your frame, and your handlebar number to your handlebars in order to get an official finishing time. Your body number, frame sticker and handlebar number will be issued to you at Registration. ATTACHING THE HANDLEBAR NUMBER The ID tag for timing is attached to the back of the handlebar number. Please separate the handlebar number from the body number along the perforations. Use the two cable ties (which will be enclosed with your body and handlebar numbers) to attach the handlebar number to the centre of the handlebar. Make sure that the whole number is visible, otherwise we can’t guarantee to link the official photographs with you. The ID tag is disposable and does NOT need to be returned once you cross the Finish Line. ATTENTION! Make sure you attach the handlebar number in the correct position (see below).
18462
09
Before Leaving Home
THE START – Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park N E
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prudentialridelondon.co.uk
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10
Getting to the Start
FINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Getting to the Start
1. PLAN CAREFULLY Due to extensive road closures for the event and the early start, we recommend that you plan your journey to the sportive very carefully and in advance. When we emailed you at the beginning of July with your start details, we suggested a variety of transport options for getting you and your bike to the Start Line in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Two of these options were driving to an official drop-off point or pre-booking a car park. If you chose one of these options, make sure you know the route you are required to take to avoid road closures (see below). Once at the car park or drop-off locations you will be able to follow a signposted route to the start. If you are not planning to drive or be driven to a car park or drop-off point, you will need to cycle to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park so please plan your route carefully. 2. ARRIVAL POINTS You will have been allocated a place in one of the Green, Blue, Orange or Pink Starts. The map on page nine shows the location of the entry points to each of these areas. The map also shows four arrival points (purple arrows A to D). Please make your way to the arrival point nearest to your start area entry point, where signposts will direct you to your allocated start area. 3. ROAD CLOSURES There will be extensive road closures from early morning to make sure the route is secure and ready for the event. Please visit PrudentialRideLondon.co.uk/ road-closures to plan your route to the start. Check tfl.gov.uk/ridelondon for full details of the road and river-crossing closures on Ride Day.
on Sunday 30 July and stations will manage a safe capacity of bicycles on trains. However, for the vast majority of participants the standard service may not be early enough to get to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park for your start wave. For further details on whether this service is an option for your journey to the start, please visit tfl.gov.uk to plan your travel. 4. PUBLIC TRANSPORT There will be limited public transport on Sunday 30 July to assist you in getting to the start in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. This year, we are again running a rail service from Richmond to Stratford on the London Overground. There will be several specially chartered trains, which will leave from Richmond and call at Acton Central, Willesden Junction, Hampstead Heath and Highbury & Islington before arriving at Stratford. There will also be an additional service which will leave from West Croydon and call at Sydenham and New Cross before arriving at Dalston Junction. You were sent details of these trains in the transport options email at the beginning of July. If you did not receive this email, call our helpdesk on 020 7902 0212. You must have a reserved place to use this service. The Docklands Light Railway will be operating its standard Sunday service
Emirates Air Line will be offering a free service over the Thames from 04:00 to transport you and your bicycle between the O2 Arena and ExCeL. This service is only available to participants. Please ensure you show your rider number to the stewards on arrival. Normal restrictions apply to the carriage of bicycles on public transport in London. Check tfl.gov.uk/cycling for details. You are advised to check what restrictions your train operating companies may have in place at nationalrail.co.uk. 5. DON’T BE LATE Otherwise your day will be over before it’s even started! All Prudential RideLondonSurrey 46 waves start between 09:0009:45 on Sunday 30 July and there will be no departures after the last wave. Please remember – your chosen wave time cannot be changed. Each wave loading area will be monitored by stewards on the day to ensure all participants are in the correct area.
Timings Location Start – Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park Drinks Station 1 – Pall Mall Drinks Station 2 – Chiswick Bridge Drinks Station 3 – Pembroke Lodge Hub 1 – Hampton Court Green Hub 2 – Kingston-upon-Thames Drinks Station 4 – Wimbledon Hill Finish – The Mall
Ride Mile
First Rider
Last Rider
0 11 18 22 27 32 38 46
09:00 09:30 09:50 10:05 10:20 10:35 10:50 11:20
09:45 10:30 11:00 11:20 11:40 12:00 12:30 13:05
@RideLondon
Planning Your Journey
11
FINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Planning Your Journey
CAR PARKING If you have booked one of the many car parking spaces across a variety of sites in London, which have been secured for Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46 riders, don’t forget to bring the booking confirmation email with you and use the information contained in it to plan your journey. You will be able to follow a signposted route from each car park to the start in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. DROP-OFF There are five drop-off locations for participants (all around five miles from Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park). The drop-off locations are available between 04:00-07:30 on the morning of Ride Day. You were sent details of these drop-off locations in the transport options email at the beginning of July. Like the car-parking sites, each drop-off location will have a signposted route to the start. You will need to make your own arrangements if you need to be picked up after the event and should take the large number of road closures into account. Transport for London is asking drivers to avoid central and south west London on Ride Day unless the journey is essential. Please also be aware that stopping or cycling on the A12 is not permitted. ROTHERHITHE TUNNEL Participants who live, park or use a dedicated drop-off location south of the river can use the Rotherhithe Tunnel to cross the river. The tunnel will be closed to traffic from 04:00-07:30. Upon exiting the tunnel on the north side of the river you will be able to follow a signposted route to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Please note that, unlike previous years, the Blackwall Tunnel remains open to prudentialridelondon.co.uk
traffic in both directions and will not be open to cyclists. Participants using the O2 Arena Car Park will be able to cross the river via the Emirates Air Line to aid their journey getting to the start.
The Start Areas
KITBAGS & BAGGAGE LORRIES The baggage lorries are labelled with a start area colour and wave letter. Please hand in your kitbag at the baggage lorry that displays the colour and wave letter corresponding to your rider number. Staff on the baggage lorries will only accept the official Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46 kitbag, which was handed to you at Registration. Kitbags are sorted into number order to allow for easy retrieval at the finish. Ensure you have stuck your self-
adhesive number label to the kitbag where indicated, and that you have drawn and tied the drawstring cord to prevent any items from falling out. Once you have deposited your kitbag on the baggage lorry, you will not be able to retrieve it until you arrive at the finish area on The Mall. Therefore, please ensure that you have all you require for the sportive BEFORE leaving your kitbag on the baggage lorry. You should then move towards your wave loading zone. WAVE LOADING ZONES A PA system and signage will help you to find your way around the start area and to the appropriate wave loading zone when it’s time for your allocated wave. Please ensure your body number and handlebar number are displayed clearly before entering your wave loading zone. REFRESHMENTS & FACILITIES Hot and cold drinks and a selection of food will be available to purchase at the start. Toilets are provided and mechanics are also on hand to help you fix any last minute issues with your bike. For any mechanical services, the labour is free to you but you will be required to pay for any parts you need.
12
Ride Day Safety
FINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Ride Day Safety
REMEMBER: It’s not a race!
At all times during the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46 sportive you must follow all instructions given by the event officials
Items that are not permitted
Slow & stop
Pedestrian crossings
Please note that you are not permitted to use the following items during the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46:
You will have the privilege of riding on closed roads throughout the entire route of the sportive, but we ask that you respect and follow some important ‘rules of the road’ during the event:
The event passes through many busy towns and villages. Seen from the side of the road this means, in some cases, a continual stream of cyclists for several hours.
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Any artificial or mechanical aid (including, without limitation, handcranked devices). Any unconventional handlebars, including triathlon bars, aero bars, clip-ons, prayer bars, Spinaci bars and cow bars or bars without bar-end plugs fitted. Mobile phones while cycling – you must pull to the roadside and stop if you wish to make or receive a phone call. Any other item that could potentially inhibit the flow or safety of other participants or which we, in our reasonable opinion, deem may cause danger or risk of danger to you or other participants. Pets or animals are not permitted in the event.
Please follow these simple steps to help ensure the safety of all those participating, watching and going about their everyday business. Remain alert, remain in control of your bicycle and enjoy the ride.
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Emergency vehicles take priority in order to attend incidents across the entire event footprint. Expect emergency vehicles on the route at any point, either crossing or driving along the route in both directions. Remain alert at all times and pull over to the side of the road to allow emergency vehicles to pass safely when required.
At certain times during the sportive, it will be necessary to allow pedestrian movement, so that pedestrians in the communities that the ride passes through can cross the route. Critical vehicles may also need to cross the event route. AA AA
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Expect to slow and stop in these busy areas. Obey the ground stewards and motorcycle marshals so that pedestrians and emergency vehicles can cross the route safely. Slowing down and creating gaps in the flow of cyclists allows pedestrians to cross the route safely. Along some parts of the sportive route, there is no pavement or pedestrian footway. When riding through sections of the route where footways do not exist, expect to encounter pedestrians and spectators who may be moving along the side of the route.
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The Route
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FINAL INSTRUCTIONS
The Route At all times during the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46 sportive you must follow all instructions given by the event officials
The route is 46 miles in length from the official Start Line in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park to the Finish Line on The Mall. At Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park there are two start chutes. These follow different parallel routes for the first six miles and then converge on exiting the Limehouse Link Tunnel. Until exiting the Limehouse Link Tunnel, please do not attempt to cross carriageways as this may cause another cyclist to swerve or, in the worst case, crash.
Riding in and around other cyclists requires care and attention. To make sure you don’t cause a crash, consider the following when riding:
RIDER SAFETY CAPTAINS Prudential RideLondon is working with Continental Tyres for a safe ride and our simple motto for everyone to remember is: look, think, communicate.
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Each wave of riders will be accompanied by two Continental Tyres Rider Safety Captains from the Start Line all the way to the Finish Line to help keep you safe at all times. It is vital that you listen to and follow instructions.
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Ride safe with Continental Tyres
Look out for our rider safety messages as Ride Day approaches and obey the instructions of the Continental Tyres Rider Safety Captains during the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46.
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Don’t do anything that the person riding behind you would not expect – for example stopping suddenly, braking sharply unless absolutely necessary, or swerving to avoid something at short notice. Constantly be aware of what is coming up ahead of you and adjust your position in the road in advance. Hold your position in the road when cornering and don’t cut from one side to the other unexpectedly. Be aware of other cyclists around you and how close they may be to you. Their safety is often in your hands and they will trust you to ride sensibly and safely.
TIMINGS The table on page 10 represents the first and last times that Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46 participants are scheduled to pass key locations. The route will be closed to cyclists before and after these times. ROUTE BREAKAWAY Remember that the routes of the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46 and 100 divide at Hampton Court. After you ride over Hampton Court Bridge, look out for the signage for the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46 route which will direct you straight on while riders in the
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100 turn right. There will also be marshals to signal the way. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with the route before the event and remember to carry a route map with you on Ride Day. HAZARDS ON THE ROUTE As a participant in the sportive, there are hazards you need to be aware of while riding. If you are alert, your ride will be safer for you and those around you. You should always expect the unexpected as you don’t necessarily know what is around each corner. Think about what might lie ahead of you. Is there a traffic island, a fast descent, a narrow section or sharp corner? Maybe there has just been a crash or perhaps there is a speed bump? To help make you aware of any potential obstacles on the route, we will provide warning signage where appropriate. On fast descents or sharp corners a marshal will be present with a yellow flag and whistle to alert you to the hazard. VEHICLES ON THE ROUTE Although the route will be closed to regular traffic, there is still a chance you may encounter vehicles on the route during your ride. These vehicles are likely to either be emergency-services vehicles, safety motorbikes, mechanics or other official event vehicles. Emergency vehicles will always have priority over the event and you should
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The Route
FINAL INSTRUCTIONS
The Route
Refuelling along the route
Clif Bar will be supplying the Hubs and Drinks Stations on the sportive route with Clif Bloks Energy Chews, Clif Shot Energy Gels and Clif Bars as follows: Clif Bloks Energy Chews are a semisolid, easily chewable source of carbohydrates formulated for athletic performance and two flavours will be available at every Hub and Drinks Station:
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always be alert. If you hear a marshal blowing a whistle, be prepared to stop and follow the instructions of the marshal carefully. If this happens, there may be an incident ahead or an emergencyservices vehicle that needs to cross or use the route. DISTANCE MARKERS Every 10 miles there will be a distance marker indicating the distance you have travelled at that point. This will be complemented by further markers to help you to get through the final few miles. TOILETS In addition to the toilets at the start, there are facilities at each Hub, Drinks Station and at regular intervals along the route for your use. After the start, the first toilets will be on The Highway between the Limehouse Link Tunnel and the Tower of London, just seven miles along the route. Toilets are provided, so please use them! Remember – urinating in public or on private property is illegal. HUBS & DRINKS STATIONS The two Hubs will be key welfare points for participants and will offer food, drinks, toilets, medical facilities and basic mechanical assistance. For any mechanical services, labour will be free, however, you will be required to pay for any parts you need. See the map on page 15 for the locations of the Hubs and Drinks Stations on the route. You must remember to bring drinks bottles with you on your bicycle as no
cups will be provided at these locations. You will be able to refill your bottles with water from large water bowsers – this will help us to reduce litter. There will be water at all Hubs and Drinks Stations. Clif Bloks Energy Chews will be available at all Hubs and Drinks Stations. nuun hydration tablets, Clif Shot Energy Gels and Clif Bars will be available from Richmond Park and at subsequent Hubs and Drinks Stations. See the panel on the right for more on the products available along the route. There will be a small selection of additional food items at each of the Hubs, however, if you require anything specific, please bring it with you. If you choose to support a local business or pub along the route by stopping for refreshments this is very much encouraged – and recommended! – but keep the cut-off times on page 10 in mind so you don’t get pulled out of the event. LOVE WHERE YOU RIDE It’s a privilege to be able to cycle through the beautiful countryside, so please do everything you can to keep it free from litter and dispose of your rubbish responsibly. There will be plenty of litter disposal areas throughout the route and at all Hubs, Drinks Stations and most toilet locations. Any litter you collect throughout the ride should be kept in your pockets and disposed of in bins along the route. Under no circumstances discard your litter at the side of the road.
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Mountain Berry - a blend of berries Tropical Punch - with 25mg of caffeine
Clif Shot Energy Gel is a source of carbohydrates formulated for athletic performance and two flavours will be available on Ride Day:
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Citrus – lemon and lime gel (with 25mg of caffeine) Razz – raspberry gel
Clif Bars are made with wholesome, delicious ingredients that deliver energy. On the sportive course there will be a selection of the range of flavours that include White Chocolate Macadamia, Crunchy Peanut Butter and the award-winning Coconut Chocolate Chip. Clif Bars will be available at the two Hubs on the route. Find out more about all these products before Ride Day at clifbar.co.uk nuun is providing on course hydration support to riders. nuun active effervescent tablets are available as single serves at the Prudential RideLondon Cycling Show at ExCeL from 27-29 July and at the Hubs on the route of the sportive. Packed with electrolytes and clean, plant-based sweeteners, nuun active is added to reusable bottles, turning water into a healthy, environmentally-friendly sports drink that is low in sugar and gluten-free. The fast-releasing carbohydrate drink provides increased fluid delivery and increased nutrient absorption. To find out more, visit nuunlife.com
@RideLondon
The Route Map
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FINAL INSTRUCTIONS
The 46 Route Map Route Key
START
Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46 route
QUEEN ELIZABETH OLYMPIC PARK
Towns and villages along the route London/Surrey boundary Drinks Station: toilets, drinks, mechanical repair
CHISWICK
Hub: medical, toilets, food, drink, mechanical repair
FINISH
7%
Distance markers (every 10 miles)
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THE MALL
RIVER THAMES
Climb
20 KINGSTON UPON THAMES
MOLESEY
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40 PUTNEY
WIMBLEDON VILLAGE
LONDON
RIVER THAMES Hubs
The two Hubs and four Drinks Stations (with toilet facilities) are on the route in the following locations: MILE 11 – D rinks Station 1, Pall Mall MILE 18 – Drinks Station 2, Chiswick Bridge MILE 22 – D rinks Station 3, Pembroke Lodge, Richmond Park MILE 27 – Hub 1, Hampton Court Green MILE 32 – Hub 2, KingstonUpon-Thames MILE 38 – Drinks Station 4, Wimbledon Hill
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MEDICAL POINTS – LOCATIONS IN ROUTE ORDER: AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA
S tart – Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park Whitehall Place Green Park Richmond Park Hampton Court Green Hub Kingston Hub Wimbledon Village Putney High Street Chelsea Bridge Finish – The Mall
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The Finish Area
FINAL INSTRUCTIONS
The Finish Area THE FINISH AREA The Royal Parks has allowed us to use The Mall, Constitution Hill and Green Park as the Finish Area for the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46. The map on page 17 shows the layout of facilities. We are grateful to the Royal Parks for its assistance and would ask that you show your appreciation by treating the area with the respect it deserves and not littering the Park and surrounding areas. Do not lean bicycles against fences or trees – please use the Bike Park instead. THE FINISH LINE The Finish Line is located on The Mall. As you cross the Finish Line, please keep moving and follow instructions from marshals. If you become distressed or feel ill in any way, our medical staff will be on hand to care for you. THE POST-FINISH AREA The Finish Area is a secure area with no public access. Once across the Finish Line you will be guided through the ‘finish system’. You will be asked to dismount, then you will be given your medal and something to eat and drink. Don’t forget, free water bottles should be collected at the Prudential RideLondon Cycling Show before Ride Day. BAGGAGE You should aim to retrieve your own belongings from the baggage lorries as quickly as possible – these will be positioned on Constitution Hill. Follow the signs and collect your baggage from the lorry with the relevant colour and rider-number range displayed on it. Once you have collected your kitbag, please move away from the baggage area to give other cyclists space to collect their kitbags. BIKE PARK We offer a free secure Bike Park for those of you who wish to relax in the Festival Zone in Green Park. The Bike Park is clearly
signposted and marshals are on hand to direct you while securely tagging your bike. Near the Bike Park we will also be providing toilets and changing facilities (still within the secure area). Please refer to the finish area map on page 17 for details. Please leave the secure finish area via the designated exit points. BICYCLE SECURITY With thousands of bikes in the finish area during the Prudential RideLondon weekend, there is an increased risk of theft. Please be vigilant and do make use of our secure Bike Park instead of locking your bike in a public area. MEET AND GREET AREA The meet and greet area can be very busy, so please take note of the following advice. There will be meeting points in the Broad Walk area of Green Park. The trees in this area of the park will be marked with letters of the alphabet so you can arrange to meet at your family initial or at another prearranged letter. Please ask your friends and relatives to meet you at one of these meeting points and ask them NOT to congregate around the exits from the secure area. This causes massive congestion for exiting
cyclists as well as other health and safety issues for the large numbers of people in this area. Our security personnel are under instructions not to allow people to congregate here and to move them along. Please make your arrangements to meet friends and relatives carefully – a little forward planning will prove extremely worthwhile. We strongly suggest that you have a contact telephone number to relay messages to a third party who will be at home and will be able to take calls and pass messages between you, should your plans go awry. Please ask any friends or relatives to bring this magazine with them – there is a map of the finish area on page 17. In the unlikely event of the finish area becoming unavailable as a result of a serious incident on Ride Day, or the sportive being stopped for some other reason, you are advised to agree an alternative meeting place (this should not be within two miles of the finish area) with friends and relatives. This will ensure you have a predetermined place to meet that will be more accessible. Heavy mobile phone traffic on all networks means you may find it difficult @RideLondon
The Finish Area
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Finish Map
British Bike Hire
100 ROUTE
KEY M Medals
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Baggage
Toilets
to receive or make a call in and around the finish area. Therefore, do not rely on mobile phones as your only means of communication. Remember that you are likely to feel tired and weary, as well as proud of your achievement, and meeting with your friends and relatives after the sportive will be difficult among thousands of other cyclists and their supporters if you haven’t made simple but specific arrangements. After crossing the Finish Line, it will take a minimum of 15 minutes and closer to 30 to 40 minutes to reach the meet and greet area. Remember to build these factors into your arrangements for meeting friends and relatives. There will also be a medical station, information point and toilets in Green Park. prudentialridelondon.co.uk
Refreshments
Changing Tents
First aid point
FESTIVAL ZONE Why not relax in the Green Park Festival Zone after you’ve completed your 46mile challenge? Enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the Park, take the opportunity to watch the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey Classic on the big screen and enjoy refuelling at the Festival Zone food court. DOWNLOAD THE APP You, and your friends and family, may like to download the official Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46 App. The App shows points of interest along the route, such as spectator Festival Zones, First Aid Points and Drinks Stations. It also helps users find and track cyclists as they pedal their way along. It includes an interactive route map allowing people to keep up with your split times and your location throughout the day, as well as
Crossing point
Secure Area
Bike Park
search for riders’ finishing times once it’s all over. OTHER POINTS TO REMEMBER Make sure you let your friends and relatives know your rider number. It is the easiest way for our information point to identify you on our database. There will be a PA system in operation throughout the day at the finish area; this is only for official commentary and emergency announcements, NOT for cyclists seeking lost friends or family. PLAN AHEAD Arranging to meet your friends and relatives ‘at the finish’ is simply not adequate and will only lead to distress and frustration on both sides. Following the instructions above will help you to avoid this situation.
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Heading Home
FINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Heading Home
You can expect to be extremely tired at the end of the sportive, so we strongly recommend planning your route home in advance. If you intend to cycle, please remember that you will be cycling on open roads and that will involve encountering other road users and traffic. PUBLIC TRANSPORT & NATIONAL RAIL Normal restrictions apply to the carriage of bicycles on public transport in London. For details, check tfl.gov.uk/cycling and plan to cycle back to your car park or accommodation in London. Check what restrictions train-operating companies may have in place for bicycles over the Prudential RideLondon weekend at nationalrail.co.uk. CAR PARKS If you are cycling back to an official car park, you will be expected to find your own way, so if you are unfamiliar with London, please come prepared with a map or GPS device and plan your route at tfl.gov.uk/ cycling. Remember, you will be cycling on open roads again, so you will be sharing the road with other traffic. PICK UP If you are planning to be picked up by car following the event, please plan your meeting point in advance with your friend/relative. When planning your meeting point you will need to consider the following key information to avoid the event road closures and any congestion: Your agreed pick-up location should not be within a two-mile radius of The Mall,
north of the river. This means that you will need to choose a location that is south of the river, north of Regent’s Park, east of Tower Bridge, or west of Kensington Gardens. If you are being dropped off at an official drop-off location, please note that the same locations will not be available for use as pick-up locations. You are advised to use an existing offstreet car park facility, but make sure you agree this in advance. Many London roads require local parking permits and normal Sunday parking restrictions will apply. For road closure information, please visit PrudentialRideLondon. co.uk/road-closures and tfl.gov.uk/ ridelondon. RETURNING TO EAST LONDON: QUEEN ELIZABETH OLYMPIC PARK BICYCLE TRANSPORT SERVICE The service allows you to have your bicycle transported from Waterloo Place, located north of the finish area, to a secure location at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, while you make your own way on public transport (such as the Jubilee line).
Thames Clippers service
A chartered Thames Clippers service, departing at regular intervals from 12:10 through to 19:30, will leave from Blackfriars Pier towards east London and call at Canary Wharf, North Greenwich and Trinity Buoy Wharf piers. Each boat will carry up to 100 participants and their bicycles with a maximum journey time of 45 minutes. The Thames Clippers Service will be strictly for participants only must be booked in advance using the details provided in the transport options email sent to you in early July. Please call our helpdesk on 020 7902 0212 if you did not receive this email. We encourage you to make every effort to arrive in time for your prebooked slot, so please choose your sailing time carefully. However, if you are delayed you will be able to wait for the next available service, subject to capacity.
This service will operate from 11:15 and must be pre-booked through the transport options link emailed to you in early July. You will need to choose a time slot and show your rider number for drop-off and collection. Please keep the handlebar number attached to your bike when you drop it off as your rider number will be used as identification to reunite you with your bicycle. @RideLondon
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RULES OF THE ROAD LOOK
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WeCyclists wantMerging to ensure you have an amazing time at the 2017 Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46, so we’ve teamed up with Continental Tyres – our Official Safety Partner – to give you Merging someCyclists simple ‘rules of the road’ to follow on the big day Look
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Communicate
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Around 5,000 of you will take part in the sportive this year, so it’s important that you follow these simple rules to ensure that everyone’s day is as enjoyable and safe as possible. Prudential RideLondon is working with Continental Tyres for a safe ride and our simple motto for everyone to remember is: look, think, communicate. Although you will have the privilege of riding on closed roads throughout the entire route of this year’s 46-mile sportive, and the freedom to ride unhampered through junctions and red lights, the highway will remain accessible to event/official vehicles, spectators and other pedestrians along its entirety. While we make every effort to prepare and warn the residents of London and Surrey, as well as the
spectators, about the vast peloton that will be coming their way, we ask that you, as a participant in the sportive, respect and follow some important rules of the road during the event.
IT’S NOT A RACE!
The Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46 is NOT A RACE, and you should not compromise your own safety – and that of the other cyclists and spectators around you – by riding the sportive as if it was a race.
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the route so it is critical that you obey the directions from the marshals.
RIDER SAFETY CAPTAINS
Additionally, each wave of riders will be accompanied by two Continental Tyres Rider Safety Captains from the Start Line all the way to the Finish Line of the 46-mile course to help keep you safe at all times. Please listen to, and follow, their instructions.
COMMUNICATE COMMUNICATE
hen you line up at the start of the second Prudential RideLondonSurrey 46 on Sunday 30 July, chances are you’ll be eager to get the 46-mile challenge underway, but before you do, we want to make sure you’re aware of a few essential ‘rules of the road’ that you’ll need to follow to be safe on the day.
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The roads will be available for you, the cyclist, at the times and locations listed in the table on page 10. Please ensure that you aim to reach the locations along the route within the designated times.
OBEY THE MARSHALS
The entire route of the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46 is managed by marshals who will secure the route and manage vehicle and pedestrian movements across it. Please follow their instructions at all times during the sportive. While the route is mostly traffic-free, you do need to be aware that you might be directed to slow down or stop due to pedestrian crossings or to allow emergency vehicles access. There are many busy locations along
STAY ALERT
Please make sure that you keep looking around as you ride as there will be signs at various points along the route to inform you about where you are and what is ahead of you further up the road. Caution signs will be in place for narrow sections, steep descents, uneven surfaces and sharp corners. Marshals will also be in position to indicate hazards and provide you with a warning in certain potentially dangerous locations, so please heed these warnings. Please do watch out for uneven road surfaces as these are a key hazard along any sportive route. To ensure you’re aware of your surroundings, please do not wear music headphones. Do not take or make mobile phone calls while you’re riding, and do not take photos.
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CYCLING ETIQUETTE
Consider the safety of those riding with you, and be aware that the cyclists around you will have varying levels of ability.
LOOK, THINK, COMMUNICATE
Try to maintain a predictable cycling line on the road – don’t swerve suddenly. If you need to stop or change direction, please indicate your intention to other riders. If you notice potential obstacles or dangers ahead of you, let your fellow riders know. If space is limited, or you cannot see clearly ahead, slow down. Cycle at a sensible speed – remember, the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46 is not a race. Maintain control of your bicycle at all times and be aware of the variable quality of the road surface. Be courteous to and patient with other event participants, road users and pedestrians crossing the route. If you encounter horses and riders, take care, slow down and pass wide. If you need
to get off your bike on hilly sections of the route, always walk on the left allowing as much room as possible for riders to pass to the right. Keep to the left-hand side of the road when it is available, allowing others travelling more quickly (including emergency and event vehicles) to pass on your right.
FIXING ON-THE-DAY PROBLEMS
Inspect your tyres before Ride Day and replace them if there are any worn patches. If you pick up a puncture or other mechanical issue on the day, please make repairs off the road where it is safer for all participants. You will also be able to get help at the Continental Tyres Pit Stop at the Start in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park should you suffer a mechanical issue before the sportive.
PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS
The Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46 route passes through some extremely busy areas, such as Kingston, Wimbledon, Putney and central
London, where pedestrian crossings will be in place for spectators and local residents on Ride Day.
PEDESTRIAN ACCESS
Some of the more rural areas along the route lack suitable pavements but pedestrians still have a legal right to use the road to move to and from their property on foot. Please keep this in mind and respect people who need to move around on foot while the roads are closed to traffic. Remain vigilant at all times.
OFFICIAL VEHICLES
A Safety Car and two motorcyclists will precede the event to ensure that road closures are in place and pedestrian crossing-point marshals are aware of the arrival of the event. Please note that the Safety Car cannot be overtaken.
EMERGENCY VEHICLES
The emergency services are still required to attend incidents along the closed roads during the event, so be prepared to expect emergency vehicles operating under blue lights
things to look out for on ride day ROLLING ROADBLOCK
(See diagram 1, right) When a vehicle crossing point or pedestrian crossing point is in use ahead of you, marshals with flags and whistles will warn you that the crossing point is active. A motorcycle marshal will also join the route from a side road and direct you to slow down with a whistle and hazard lights. Please do not try to overtake the motorcyclist. It is their job to slow you, the cyclist, down (and stop you if necessary) in order to create a gap ahead for emergency services or pedestrians to cross the route. Once the emergency vehicle – or crossing pedestrians – are clear of the route, you will be given the all-clear to continue.
safe for a motorcycle marshal to join the route. DIAGR AM 1
Marshals on the side of the road ahead of you waving flags and blowing whistles will warn you that a vehicle crossing point is in operation. Further marshals will wave red flags and blow whistles. The marshal who is closest to the emergency crossing point will hold up a STOP sign. You must stop if you see this sign.
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BOX CROSSING
(See diagrams 3A and 3B, right) The final vehicle crossing option that our marshals might put in place during the sportive is a box crossing, which will be used on junctions where vehicles can be moved across the junction in two stages.
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DIAGR AM 3A
FL AG CONTROL ROADBLOCK
(See diagram 2, right) A flag control roadblock follows the same principles as a rolling roadblock but will be used on narrow sections of the route when it is not 20 // PRUDENTIAL RIDELONDON
Please be aware that, at some point during the ride, marshals with yellow flags and whistles may direct you to one side of the road or the other.
DIAGR AM 3B
@RideLondon
PRL // Rules of the Road
at any time along the route. Please familiarise yourself with the three examples below when you might be directed to slow down or stop by our marshals on Ride Day to help the movement of emergency vehicles: 1) Emergency vehicles will travel on the ‘normal’ (ie left-hand side) of the road where possible so please be aware that they may appear behind you. Be prepared to pull over and let them pass on your right. 2) Emergency vehicles will try to travel in the direction of the ride but this will not always be possible. Therefore, they may be travelling towards you. Stay alert, be aware and stop if necessary. 3) There are also contingency crossings in place along the route for the provision of vehicle access across the road in the event of emergencies. If a vehicle needs to cross the route, you must slow down and in some cases stop.
LITTER
Please do not drop any litter along the route. We are guests of the communities we pass through and dropping litter, especially gel wrappers, is not an appropriate way to say thank you. Keep litter in your pockets until you can place items in a rubbish bin. Turn to page 24 to find out more about our ‘Love Where You Ride’ campaign.
TOILETS
Please use the toilets provided at regular intervals along the route; urinating in public is not acceptable.
HILLS
When riding up one of the many hills you will encounter on the route, please keep to the left-hand side of the road so that those riders travelling more quickly can pass to your right. Please also make sure you approach descents on narrow roads with care and in control.
be replenished at the Hubs/Drinks Stations. Please note that we do not provide cups or bottled drinks so you will need to bring your own drinks bottles to the sportive.
YOU AND YOUR BIKE
You must use a roadworthy and permitted bicycle (see the panel below and page 22 for more information). The wearing of helmets is compulsory, and the helmet must be in good condition, comply with EN 1078 standards and be worn properly at all times while cycling. These guidelines will ensure you have a safe and comfortable ride on Sunday 30 July.
RIDE SAFE WITH CONTINENTAL TYRES...
Look out for our rider safety messages as Ride Day approaches.
BE PREPARED
Dress appropriately for the weather conditions, bring basic tools, spares – such as inner tubes – and pack food and full water bottles, which can
PLEASE FAMILIARISE YOURSELF WITH WHAT IS AND ISN’T ALLOWED ON RIDE DAY: Turn to page 22 for a more detailed summary of the bicycles that are permitted in the sportive and the bicycles that are not permitted. THE FOLLOWING BICYCLES ARE
PERMITTED IN 2017:
Single-speed (both fixed wheel and free wheel) bicycles are allowed in the sportive as long as they have suitable front and rear brakes.
Mountain bikes are allowed – although please use slick tyres to conserve energy. Folding bicycles are allowed. Tandems are permitted if officially entered. Tandem riders should have already informed the Prudential RideLondon entry team if they were planning to ride a tandem.
THE FOLLOWING BICYCLES ARE
Unconventional handlebars (including triathlon bars, aero bars, clip-ons, prayer bars, Spinaci bars and cow bars) are not allowed.
NOT PERMITTED IN 2017: • Fixed wheel with no brakes • Fixed wheel with only a front brake • Time-trial bicycles • Unicycles • Towed trailers • Electrically assisted pedal cycles
• Cargo bicycles • Handcycles • Child carriers • Quadcycles • Trailer bicycles
Specialist time-trial bicycles are not allowed as they do not allow for immediate control of the bicycle. Handlebars without bar-end plugs are not permitted.
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Recumbent bicycles or tricycles are permitted if officially entered. Recumbent riders should have already informed the Prudential RideLondon entry team if they were planning to ride a recumbent.
Electric bicycles, including electrically assisted pedal cycles, are not permitted but are welcome to take part in the Prudential RideLondon FreeCycle on Saturday 29 July. These restrictions are not a reflection on anyone’s personal ability, speed ability or skill level on a pedal cycle or with certain equipment. It is a considered view on the overall risk associated from any participant using such items or equipment to the large numbers of cyclists, who themselves have a very wide variation of skill level, participating in the event. This is reviewed on an annual basis.
PERMITTED CYCLES
ROAD BIKE
HYBRIDS
MOUNTAIN BIKE
• Probably the most common bicycle used in the event due to comfort and efficiency over a long distance
• Typically more upright riding position designed for multi-surfaces. Usually more robust tyres and construction
• Designed for off-road use with knobbly tyres. Comfortable but not efficient for a long road ride
TANDEM
SINGLE SPEED
• For those wishing to ride together • Tandem riders should have already informed the organisers as there are a limited number of entries for tandem bikes
• Single speeds with a fixed or freewheel are permitted as long as they have two handlebar-operated brakes – one front and one rear • Please consider your gearing for the hills
RECUMBENT • Recumbent riders should have already informed the organisers as there are a limited number of entries for recumbent bikes • Only to be used without full-faring
FOLDING BIKE • Designed for the commuter • Please consider carefully if this is the most appropriate bike to use
CRUISER BIKE
TRICYCLE
• Heavy, upright, minimal gears • Not designed for sportives • Although permitted, these bikes are not recommended for a 46-mile ride
• Offers an option for those requiring more balance • Lightweight models designed to be efficient over long distances • Heavier than a road bike due to the extra frame and wheel • Please consider the suitability of this bike for the route
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@RideLondon
PRL // Rules of the Road
CYCLES THAT ARE NOT PERMITTED OTHER ITEMS THAT ARE NOT PERMITTED INCLUDE:
TRAILERS • Any form of trailer creates a potential risk to those in and around them • Not permitted on safety grounds
FIXED WHEEL • Bicycles without front and rear brakes such as track bikes and ‘fixies’ do not offer the required safety compliance, therefore they are not permitted
TIME-TRIAL BIKES • Designed for speed; not permitted as control and access to brakes are not optimal for riding in large groups
HANDCYCLES
PENNY FARTHING
• Currently not permitted • Not suited to large groups of riders • Limited visibility
• Due to safety considerations and the terrain of the sportive, Penny Farthings do not meet the safety requirements of the event
HANDLEBARS Control of your bicycle is paramount so brakes and any gears need to be easily accessible. Handlebars that are not designed for the immediate control of your bicycle are not permitted – some examples are shown below:
BMX • They are not designed to ride over long distances such as a sportive
ELECTRIC/POWER-ASSISTED
OVERSIZE/BULL HORN BARS
• To take part in the sportive, everyone must be unassisted by any form of motorisation, therefore these bikes are not permitted
TRACK BARS (NO BRAKES)
CARGO BIKES • Due to the size and width of these bikes, they do not meet our safety requirements
prudentialridelondon.co.uk
NARROW/ MODIFIED BARS
UNICYCLES • Not deemed suitable for riding in large groups over the terrain of the sportive
AERO/ATTACHABLE HANDLEBARS PRUDENTIAL RIDELONDON // 23
t Prudential RideLondon, we are dedicated to looking after our surroundings. It’s a privilege to be able to cycle through the streets of the capital and the great British countryside, so let’s do everything we can to protect the environment as we enjoy it.
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In 2015, we launched our Love Where You Ride campaign to encourage everyone who takes part in the world’s greatest festival of cycling to get behind this simple idea. This year, we’re determined to see even more of you dispose of litter responsibly on every training ride and during the Prudential RideLondon weekend. Your support will make the world of difference.
BIN IT When you take part in the festival of cycling in July, we will do all we can to ensure that you can easily dispose of litter throughout the weekend. You will be able to get rid of your litter quickly and safely at the Drinks Stations and Hubs located around the route when you take on the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46.
refill these bottles with water (and nuun active effervescent tablets, if you wish) at the Drinks Stations and Hubs along the route. This will keep both litter and waste to a minimum.
EVERYONE’S CAMPAIGN Our Love Where You Ride campaign extends well beyond riders in the sportive. Pro cyclists in the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey Classic will dispose of their litter in ‘green zones’, while thousands of riders enjoying London’s traffic-free roads at Prudential RideLondon FreeCycle are also encouraged to use bins in the Festival Zones and refill their drinks bottles at hydration stations to keep waste to a minimum.
DO YOUR BIT WELL GEL As well as providing plenty of litter disposal areas along the sportive route, we’ll be helping you to Love Where You Ride in other ways too. We’ll be handing out Clif Shot Energy Gels again this year, which have a patented pack featuring a ‘litter leash’ tab to ensure the torn-open top of the gel stays attached to the pack for easy disposal after you’ve slurped down a gel.
We hope that you’ll commit to Love Where You Ride every time you venture out on your bike – and not just during the Prudential RideLondon festival weekend – by disposing of your litter properly on every ride.
A LOT OF BOTTLE
Olympic gold medallist Chris Boardman MBE has been a fantastic ambassador for Love Where You Ride since it was launched in 2015 and we are delighted that this year six-time Olympic champion, Sir Chris Hoy is backing our campaign too.
To keep waste to a minimum during the 46-mile sportive, we’re asking you to carry two refillable drinks bottles on your bike. You will be able to
Sir Chris says: “I’m pleased to support Love Where You Ride. We can all do our bit to protect
24 // PRUDENTIAL RIDELONDON
@RideLondon
PRL // Love Where You Ride
and respect the areas where we ride whenever we are cycling. “By choosing a bike as your mode of transport, you are already leading the way in looking after the environment. But we are urging everyone to maximise that contribution to society by ensuring that all litter is disposed of properly. It’s a simple but effective way of looking after our surroundings and setting a good example.” On the day of the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46, we would like every rider to stash used bar or gel wrappers in a jersey pocket until they encounter a bin. Wrappers weigh two grams or less so there’s FOR THE JOURNEY
We have a Love Where You Ride top-tube sticker for every cyclist taking part in the Prudential RideLondonSurrey 46 sportive. As well as reminding you to dispose of your litter in the bins provided at every Drinks Station and Hub, the sticker will also help you to track your progress through the 46-mile challenge by picking out places of interest along the route. You’ll be able to collect your sticker when you register for the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46 at ExCeL in east London from 27-29 July.
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no reason not to hold onto them as you ride. While we want to keep the streets clean, Love Where You Ride isn’t just about litter. The ethos of the campaign is also about respecting other people we encounter when we’re out riding, as well as the environment.
Do your bit to Love Where You Ride during Prudential RideLondon
“When you’re in the zone, it can be easy to lose sight of looking out for other road users and the environment but we should always remember to be courteous,” says Sir Chris. “Cyclists have every right to enjoy the roads but we need to be mindful of everyone else too, especially when cycling in a group. Any issues we might experience can often be overcome by being pleasant and courteous.” Sir Chris adds: “We would love to see the Prudential RideLondon festival help lead the way for a cleaner, safer UK and you can play a huge role in that by adhering to the ethos of Love Where You Ride.” We hope you’ll Love Where You Ride every time you’re out on your bike. Send us snaps of your favourite training rides by tweeting us @RideLondon #LoveWhereYouRide and we’ll share your efforts to Love Where You Ride as Prudential RideLondon approaches. PRUDENTIAL RIDELONDON // 25
Funding from The London Marathon Charitable Trust for new cycling trails in Osterley Park has opened up health and fitness opportunities to a whole new audience, says Danny Coyle
T
here are few more striking places in London in which to enjoy the great outdoors than Osterley Park. And fewer still that border a road as busy and noisy as the M4, yet could make you feel as though you’re a million miles from any such hustle and bustle. The National Trust’s 357 acres of land and stunning house are probably one of London’s best kept secrets, but to their users they are a haven of well-kept open spaces and trails that provide plenty of opportunity to enjoy a range of health and fitness activities. This year, those activities have been enhanced thanks to a grant from The London Marathon Charitable Trust to upgrade around 4.5km of cycling trails within the grounds. But far from targeting the hardcore cyclists you might find enjoying some of London’s other green spaces, Osterley Park’s focus with this project is to encourage entry-level cyclists, families and people who are currently inactive. It’s an audience that certainly needs attention. In its first year, Sport England’s Active Lives Survey
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reported that over 11 million people are inactive (classed as doing less than 30 minutes of exercise per week). It is this section of the population the National Trust is concerned with. The new trails at Osterley are one of 10 projects taking place at the charity’s sites around the UK that aim to increase the levels of activity undertaken by visitors. “Cycling as an activity is perfect for the National Trust in terms of the type of audience we’re looking to reach,” says Ed Hewison, Outdoor Activities Development Officer at Osterley House. “The Sport England statistics make for quite grim reading – there are so many [inactive] people hiding away. We’re trying to offer a family-friendly, entry-level, inactiveto-active accessible venue. “You could argue that Richmond Park is close to us, and it’s a fantastic place to get fit, but it’s got a different audience to the type of person we’re aiming for here. That’s reflected in the skills area and the blue trail we’ve put in – it’s fun to ride but not intimidating, that’s what it’s about. You could do it on a balance bike.” @RideLondon
PRL // Blazing a Trail
INSIDE THE LONDON MAR ATHON CHARITABLE TRUST
The Trust primarily provides capital funding for building or facilities projects that inspire increased participation in physical activity, sport and play. Every year, the profits achieved by London Marathon Events Ltd are transferred under Gift Aid to The London Marathon Charitable Trust and the Trustees award grants to organisations that further The Trust’s objective to encourage people to become more active. The Trust’s present focus is engaging and supporting individuals and groups who do not currently participate in physical activity.
Applications for funding are accepted for facilities located in any area where London Marathon Events Ltd stages events: the 32 London boroughs and the City of London, Surrey, South Northamptonshire, and Aylesbury Vale.
• Major Capital Grants From £20,001 to £150,000, for the renovation, modernisation or creation of significant facilities for organisations already encouraging people not physically active to participate in sporting activities.
The London Marathon Charitable Trust makes grants four times a year across three different categories:
• Strategic Grants A separate fund to deliver major sports and recreation facilities. Applications for Strategic Grants may be submitted on an invitation-only basis.
• Small Capital Grants From £5,000 to £20,000, intended to help improve existing amenities or to build new facilities and support more people to become physically active.
The Trust’s current priorities are primarily to fund the capital component of projects that increase participation, especially among individuals
and groups who are currently physically inactive or have low levels of activity, plus children and young people outside of school hours. “We are really looking at the impact of capital spending on participation and activity,” explains Chief Grants Officer Sarah Ridley. “As we are unable to fund all applications, we are looking for good quality applications from organisations that are committed to getting people active.” More information about The Trust, the criteria and the application process can be found at: lmct.org.uk
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Osterley House; a view of the house from the new trail; new signage has gone in for cyclists; a rider on the new route
prudentialridelondon.co.uk
PRUDENTIAL RIDELONDON // 27
PRL // Blazing a Trail
T he s k i l l s a re a i s t h e pe r fe ct pl a ce fo r yo u n ger r i ders t o lea rn h ow to h an d l e t h ei r b i kes
Osterley House A stunning backdrop for the new familyfriendly cycling trails
Snaking through a wooded section of the new trails, the skills area is the perfect place for younger riders to learn how to handle their bikes through tight turns and to negotiate small humps, with the rest of the trail a significant improvement on what was there before. General Manager of the property Neil Cole explains: “There are a number of properties where there is cycling activity but it is very much random in its approach. Before this project there were no designated cycle trails. “As a community of properties we were approached and I put Osterley forward and tried to seek funding. We learned that The London Marathon Charitable Trust was primarily focused on awarding grants to projects in the areas where London Marathon Events Ltd holds events and we realised we could benefit.
With the £150,000 grant from The London Marathon Charitable Trust also comes the requirement to report back on the impact the project has had on the number of people using the trails. The primary aim is to increase visitor numbers to the trails, measured by counters positioned at the entrance to the new routes, to 50,000 a year by 2019. There are also aims to increase regularly active participants to 13,000 a year and to get the proportion of participants aged 14 to 25 across the park’s sports activities to 50 per cent. Already the park is used by a women’s cycling group, which Hewison hopes will grow in number with the more accessible trails in place, and he also has plans for a link-up with GP surgeries in the community for cycling and other forms of exercise to become referral options for patients who would benefit.
“We wanted something that was family-friendly and very much used for cycling, but that could also be used for running, walking, wheelchair users, parents with buggies and all other visitors.
“That’s the challenge,” says Cole, “that inactive audience – to get them active because they have all of this on their doorstep.”
“The project has involved upgrading existing pathways to a better standard so they are now multi-purpose, cambered correctly and wider.”
And with these new facilities now open, the residents and visitors to west London have a wonderful opportunity to get active.
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@RideLondon
Everyone is welcome at Prudential RideLondon FreeCycle so get your family and friends together for a great day out in the capital Don’t miss: • Loads of bike-based activities at Seven Festival Zones • 10 miles of traffic-free roads • 70,000+ cyclists
Find out more and register now at
PrudentialRideLondon.co.uk/FreeCycle
SPORTIVE
MEDICAL ADVICE
It is YOUR responsibility to be fit and well on the day of the sportive in order to enjoy the experience as safely as possible and not put yourself at risk. If you are injured or ill before Ride Day you can return your entry for a guaranteed place at next year’s sportive (see page 17 for details).
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MEDICAL PROBLEMS Discuss any medical problems with your general practitioner (GP). The advice here supplements anything he or she says. See your GP if you have a problem that makes it a risk to cycle in a sportive. If you have a serious medical condition and want to consider riding you should get your GP and/or specialist’s agreement. If this applies to you, please send us details of your condition and treatment along with your rider number. Address the envelope to Medical 30 // PRUDENTIAL RIDELONDON
Director, mark it ‘Confidential’ and send it to: Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100, PO Box 1234, London SE1 8RZ. We cannot give individual cyclists advice but are happy to advise your GP. If you have a medical problem that may lead to you having a blackout, such as fits or diabetes, please put a cross on the front of your rider number and write the details, especially your medication, on the reverse of the number. Please carefully read the following useful and comprehensive advice from the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100 medical team.
FIT TO TAKE PART Cycling is good for the heart but in any strenuous endurance event there are occasionally fatalities from serious heart disease in athletes apparently unaware that they had a problem. Their condition may have been detected if they had received medical advice and undergone the relevant heart @RideLondon
PRL // Medical Advice
tests. A ‘fitness test’ is not sufficient to detect these problems.
Take on board plenty of non-alcoholic drinks, especially when training in hot weather.
If you have a family history of heart disease or sudden death, or have a high risk from high cholesterol or high blood pressure but particularly if you have symptoms of heart disease, such as chest pain or discomfort on exertion, sudden shortness of breath or rapid palpitations, see your GP who will be able to arrange for you to have a proper cardiac assessment. Such an assessment may not be instantly available, but continuing to ride with these symptoms may shorten your cycling career catastrophically!
Drinking on the bike needs practice. You should aim to practise drinking while cycling on longer training rides and make sure you are used to the drinks available on the day. nuun and company are supplying active effervescent tablets – see page 28 for more info.
DRINKING ON THE DAY Make sure your water bottles are full before the sportive. Sip some water or sports drink in the half hour before the start so that you begin the event reasonably well hydrated. Drinks will be available at regular intervals along the route at Hubs and Drinks Stations (there are four Hubs and eight Drinks Stations). Be considerate, don’t take too many drinks as you may be depriving slower cyclists behind you of much-needed fluids. Drink when you feel the need and do not gulp large volumes of fluids before, during or after the sportive. Your needs vary with your build, your speed and, above all, the weather. After the finish you can only rehydrate (replace lost fluids) gradually over the next 24 to 48 hours. Do not drink large volumes of fluid after finishing: listen to your thirst and drink accordingly. Eat some salty food as well as spacing out your drinks. This way you will not get hyponatraemia, a serious medical condition where sodium levels in the bloodstream are diluted, and you will still replace the water, salt and glycogen lost in riding the sportive.
THINK BEFORE YOU DRINK ILLNESS If you have ’flu, a feverish cold or a tummy bug, do not train until you have fully recovered, then start gently and build up gradually. Do not attempt to catch up on lost mileage after illness or injury – this may cause further damage or illness. If you have ’flu it can take as much as a month to recover, so consider whether you should take part in the sportive this time. Individuals with a previous history of heat-related illness or heatstroke are not advised to ride in a competitive fashion to avoid overheating. Over the past two years at mass participation events, I have observed some very serious cases of heatstroke among individuals with a previous history of such problems.
DRINKING IN TRAINING Alcoholic drinks, tea and coffee are dehydrating. prudentialridelondon.co.uk
You need to replace some of the fluid lost in sweat, otherwise your body becomes dehydrated and less efficient. However, drink when you feel the need and do not drink water excessively before, during or after the sportive as you may develop hyponatraemia. As with other endurance sports, cyclists who overdrink are at risk of developing hyponatraemia. The condition has resulted in a number of deaths in endurance events over the last few years but it is entirely avoidable by not overdrinking.
TRAINING To reduce your injury risk, vary the pace and distance of your training rides. Wear a helmet and be visible – wear bright or reflective clothing. Muscular aches and pains often occur after an increase in training. Try to gradually increase your training so that you do not suffer prolonged periods of exhaustion. Separate days of heavy PRUDENTIAL RIDELONDON // 31
PRL // Medical Advice
mileage with one or two days of lighter training, or rest days, so that your body can refuel your muscles with muscle glycogen. If you cannot ride at least 50 miles comfortably three weeks before the sportive, you are unlikely to safely manage 100 miles. We do not recommend you ride on this occasion if you have not trained properly.
EATING Large doses of supplementary vitamins and minerals (such as iron) are not essential and produce no benefit if you are on a good mixed diet, but additional vitamin C in small doses is reasonable when fresh fruit and vegetables are in short supply.
If you cannot ride 50 miles comfortably three weeks before the sportive, you are unlikely to safely manage 100 miles
SUPPLEMENTS Adequate preparation for a cycle sportive requires appropriate nutrition, hydration and rest. Athletes often consume isotonic, carbohydrate and protein drinks as well as energy gels and bars purchased in sports and health food shops in preparation for the event, which is considered safe practice. However, over the last two decades there have been an increasing number of commercially available compounds that claim to enhance performance. Some of these have been found to contain substances banned in other countries, and other products (such as steroids) that are
banned for use among competitive athletes. Such products are usually purchased via the Internet and should not be used by anyone training for a sports event. Cyclists using performance-enhancing compounds that have not been licensed and regulated properly may experience serious side effects and increase their risk of developing heart disturbances that culminate in sudden death. For example, there have been wellpublicised cases of runners inadvertently using compounds in an attempt to help them fight fatigue during endurance events,
Training (with adequate rest) helps you to sustain a high level of muscle glycogen if you eat enough carbohydrates. If you can, eat within two hours of your long rides. This helps replace muscle glycogen quickly and also speeds recovery. In the last few days before the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100, eat more carbohydrates (pasta, bread, potatoes, cereals, rice and sweet things) and less protein (meat) at the same time as tapering or reducing your training. This loads your muscles with glycogen, which will delay, or even prevent, ‘bonking’ on Ride Day.
ON THE DAY Wear appropriate clothes for the weather, but be prepared for all conditions. Do not ride if you feel unwell or have just been unwell, even if you are riding for charity. Most medical emergencies occur in people who have been unwell but do not 32 // PRUDENTIAL RIDELONDON
which have caused detrimental effects to their health, resulting in their death. In one recent case, toxicology identified traces of DMAA, which is an amphetaminelike substance. Although banned in sport, the product was legally available at the time and advertised as a powerful performance-enhancing agent, and the warnings associated with the potential harmful ingredients were not highlighted on the product. Cyclists should avoid consuming unregulated substances bought over the Internet.
wish to miss the event. If you feel feverish, have been vomiting, have had severe diarrhoea or any chest pains, or otherwise feel unwell, it is unfair to you, your family and your sponsoring charity to risk serious illness and become a medical emergency. You are unlikely to do yourself justice. There will be many other sportives.
Professor Sanjay Sharma, BSc (Hons), MD, FRCP (UK), FESC is Professor of Cardiology at St George’s, University of London and the medical director of the Vitality London 10,000, the Virgin Money London Marathon and the Prudential RideLondon festival of cycling @RideLondon
