At Scottish Cycling we know clubs take massive value from hearing from others about the approach they are taking to all aspects of their development – but this is particularly true at this present time as we plan for the return of club cycling activity.
We want to capture club experiences in case studies so that we can share this learning across the club network, and hopefully provide opportunities for clubs to learn from others too. These case studies will make up the #wheelsinmotion series highlighting good practice across the country around getting riders back to action.
For the South-West instalment of our #WheelsinMotion club case study series, we’ll be getting to know the Ayr Burners Cycling Club and what they’re doing to support their members’ back to activity post-pandemic.
The Ayr Burners were founded in 2012 and their main aims are to provide cycling opportunities in Ayrshire and to encourage other cyclists to visit the area too. They promote themselves as the “ideal home for recreational riders looking to enjoy their cycling without the pressure of racing”. The club welcome cyclists of all ages from 13 up and are committed to developing youth cycling with focuses on Sportives, Cyclocross, and adventures!
With the recent year of COVID-19 restrictions the club amongst many others has been unable to run much of their usual activity but are now starting to re-emerge from lockdown and get back to doing what they love best!
South-West CDC, Maddy Watson interviewed Club Chairman JP Baxter to get a better insight into the club’s plan looking forwards. On the importance of the club’s return to activity JP described the vital community the clubs provides and the social interaction members enjoy with both the rides and sessions, he said,
“Everyone who enjoys club cycling knows the importance of being able to meet up and enjoy riding with club mates. It's the weekly staple for the Burners and we've all missed each other”
Socialising is a huge part of sport and for many it’s the bit we’ve missed the most over the last year. However, with a return to larger social sessions and rides comes the need for stricter protocols to continue to protect club members from the virus. We know this is a significant concern for many clubs at the moment and something Scottish Cycling is working hard to provide support on.
The Ayr Burners seem to be keeping things nice and simple, having identified three main considerations for keeping members safe when returning to activity. These considerations are; group size, physical distancing and hygiene. With some simple organisation, the club ensures groups are kept small and this in turn will make it easier for riders to keep a safe distance from each other making it much less likely that should anyone unknowingly have the virus it will be much more difficult to pass it on. The ride leaders also ensure all members are aware of new hygiene standards such as frequent hand washing, not sharing kit and a strict (but sad) no hugging rule. All sessions also use a register which gives attendees extra reassurance.
Whilst these measures are incredibly important physically, they also give members more peace of mind when returning to activity and ensures they feel confident and safe which is a key factor for the club. JP explained that the club’s measures had been extremely effective at protecting members thus far he said,
“Everyone is glad to be back! Our attendance figures are stronger than ever which shows there's a big relief to have the social aspect of club riding back again.”
It’s fantastic to see cycling clubs prospering from the uptake of cycling activity during the lockdowns and Ayr Burners are a great example of a club who are open to all and actively encouraging people to keep on cycling.
The club have also been doing lots of good communication work in the lead up to this return. Making great use of social media and their club website, the club committee has made sure members know exactly what restrictions and regulations apply to them before attending a session or ride. Supporting and preparing members in this way has been a key factor in creating a safe sporting environment to return to.
The Ayr Burners counts themselves doubly lucky to be in one of the more spacious Scottish local authorities of South Ayrshire, during a time in which travel restrictions still apply. The plethora of rural and minor roads allows them to stay away from overly busy areas whilst still enjoying scenic riding. On the return to riding together JP says, “it's been great to see and chat with members after 4 long months!”
Looking ahead to further easing of restrictions the club is incredibly excited to piece together a tentative calendar of activities and outings for the Summer season. They’re most looking forwards to organising open events.
