Breakaway to. the Beach Rider Guide

Transcription

1 Breakaway to the Beach Rider Guide Congratulations! By registering for the 2013 Bike MS: Breakaway to the Beach, you have made a commitment in the fight against multiple sclerosis (MS). Whether you are a first-time participant or a veteran rider, you most likely have questions about the ride. The 2013 Bike MS: Breakaway to the Beach Rider Guide is exactly that a guide to help you have a successful and enjoyable experience as a Breakaway to the Beach cyclist. From the mission of the National MS Society and how Bike MS proceeds benefit Carolinians living with MS to event tips and route maps, the Rider Guide provides useful information and insight into how to best achieve your goals for one of the largest Bike MS rides in North America. The table of contents outlines the full scope of information at your fingertips. On behalf of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Greater Carolinas Chapter and the thousands of Carolinians living with MS, thank you for your participation and support of our vital mission.

2 Bike MS: Breakaway to the Beach Ride 2013 Presented by Thank you to our sponsors and official bike shops: And thanks also to these fine folks: The 2013 Bike MS: Breakaway to the Beach Team Elizabeth Hopwood, Bike Manager 2

3 Table of Contents Why We Ride... 4 Route Highlights... 5 Event Site Information... 6 Sunday 50-Mile Route FAQs... 8 Event Site Maps Monroe Start Site... 9 Kershaw Start Site Saturday Lunch Stop...11 Saturday Finish Site Francis Marion-Sunday Green Sea Start Site Sunset Beach Finish Site Start Preparing Now Accommodations Packet Pick Up Using Your Ride Numbers Packing List FAQs (General Information, Medical, SAGs, Transportation, Training Rides, etc.) Safety (Handling Emergencies, Cycling Tips, Safety: The Rules of the Road, and Additional Safety Thoughts) Fundraising Official Bike Shops

4 Why We Ride The mission of the National MS Society s is: We mobilize people and resources to drive research for a cure and to address the challenges of everyone affected by MS. In the United States today, there are approximately 400,000 people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Each week, 200 more people are diagnosed and must learn to address the challenges of living with MS. MS is a chronic, often disabling disease of the central nervous system. Symptoms may be mild such as numbness in the limbs or severe--paralysis or loss of vision. Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50 but the unpredictable effects can be life-long. The progress, severity and specific symptoms of MS in any one person cannot yet be predicted. A person with MS does not know when it will strike, what symptoms they will have, when it will get worse or better, or if they will become permanently disabled. This is why we ride. The National MS Society is the largest private sponsor of MS research in the world and proudly provides local programs designed to improve the lives of individuals and families affected by MS. By choosing to ride in the 2013 Bike MS: Breakaway to the Beach ride you are joining thousands of people across the country united in the mission: To create a world free of MS. 4

5 Route Highlights Bike MS Double Century (200 miles) For the fourth year in a row we are offering you the opportunity to complete a Double Century. Enjoy 200 miles of fun, safe, and scenic roads that will challenge even the strongest cyclists. On Saturday, choose the Century route option from Monroe, North Carolina. Then, on Sunday, make the Century start from Francis Marion University. This is one challenge you will never forget! Bike MS 180 Perhaps you enjoy a challenge but want a little warm-up ride before going all out. The Bike MS 180 will allow you to take it easy on Saturday by riding the 80-mile route. Then, on Sunday, follow it up with the challenge of the Century start from Francis Marion University. Bike MS 150 Ride the distance that started it all: 150 miles. This is a challenge that any rider can be proud of. This option requires you to take the Century route on Saturday but rewards you with a nice 50-mile spin on Sunday. If you choose this option, we will transport your bicycle overnight to the 50-mile start site in Green Sea, South Carolina. On Sunday morning, you will go directly from your hotel to this start site where you will mount up and go... rolling-start style as you complete the end of your weekend journey. Both Sunday routes follow the same roads; the 50-mile start site is simply located 50 miles down the route. See page 8 for FAQs about the Sunday 50-mile route. Bike MS 130 Are you in it for the fun? Then, the 130-mile option is just what the doctor ordered. Simply ride the 80-mile route from Kershaw, South Carolina on Saturday and the 50-mile route option on Sunday. If you choose this option, we will transport your bicycle overnight to the 50-mile start site. On Sunday morning, you will go directly from your hotel to this start site where you will mount up and go... rolling-start style as you complete the end of your weekend journey. Both Sunday routes follow the same roads; the 50 mile start site is simply located 50 miles down the route. See page 8 for FAQs about the Sunday 50-mile route. NEW for 2013! Bike MS 35 Lunch Ride (Saturday Only) Looking for a lot more fun and a little less mileage, but still want to participate and fundraise to end MS? Then the Lunch Ride is the choice for you. The Lunch Ride is a fully supported 35-mile ride that will provide all of the same great safety, support, and fun that Bike MS is famous for. Cyclists will arrive at Francis Marion University and be shuttled via coach buses to Coker College where they will join the other riders for lunch before conquering 35 miles that lead to all of the food, fun, and amenities at Francis Marion University. 5

6 Event Site Information The 2013 Breakaway to the Beach ride begins with three great start sites Saturday. Cyclists from both the Monroe and Kershaw start sites will come together for lunch at Coker College in Hartsville, South Carolina. Cyclists for the 35-mile Lunch Ride will start at Coker College after a short bus ride from Francis Marion University in Florence. Head out of Hartsville to begin the final leg of the Saturday ride. You will begin to feel the excitement of your accomplishment when you turn onto the campus of Francis Marion University in Florence, South Carolina. Take a quick right past the Field of Hope and it s on to the finishing straightaway. Turn the final pedal strokes along the tree-lined street flanked with cheering fans to celebrate your arrival. This will truly be an epic finish that you ll never forget. Saturday Start Sites: Central Academy of Technology and Arts 600 Brewer Drive Monroe, NC Route Distance: Century (100 mile) Route Difficulty: Challenging Ride Start Time: 7:30 a.m. Route Closes: 5:00 p.m. Directions: Map Carolina Motorsports Park 3362 Kershaw Highway Kershaw, SC Route Distances: 80 mile Route Difficulty: Moderate Ride Start Time: 7:30am Route Closes: 5:00pm Directions: Map For more information on Carolina Motorsports Park, click here. Coker College 300 East College Ave. Hartsville, SC Route Distance: 35 mile Route Difficulty: Easy Rolling Start: 10:00 a.m. Route Closes: 5:00 p.m. Directions: Map **Special Note for Kershaw Cyclists*** We highly encourage you to check in on Friday to avoid delays on Saturday morning. We will need everyone entering the Speedway to sign the Speedway s waiver. This includes family and friends! Avoid the lines and come celebrate with us on Friday! The Kershaw start site will feature the following: FREE overnight camping and Go Kart racing (fee applies) on Friday night; food and music; option to ride on the 2.3 mile professional race track on Friday night; Saturday start on the race track with the first miles of the 80-mile route on this one-of-a-kind road course! Saturday Finish Site: Francis Marion University 4822 East Palmetto St. Florence, SC Directions: Map 6

7 There will be two route options for Sunday: A Century route starting from Francis Marion University and a 50-mile route from Green Sea Floyds Elementary School. Shuttle buses will pick cyclists up from hotel drop points and bring them directly to Francis Marion University or Green Sea. Upon arrival you will locate your bike inside the secure lockup, put on your helmet, and begin your journey to the sands of Sunset Beach. Both routes will offer the same safe, scenic, and fun roads. Either way you go, you will cross the finish line in the town of Sunset Beach, North Carolina. The sands of Sunset Beach are less than three miles away. Cyclists can journey to the beach after crossing the official finish line. Whether you go it alone or wait to meet up with friends and teammates, you will enjoy a beautiful ride across the Mannon C. Gore Bridge. Sunday Start Sites: Francis Marion University 4822 East Palmetto St. Florence, SC Route Distance: Century (100 mile) Route Difficulty: Challenging Ride Start Time: 7:30 a.m. Route Closes: 5:00 p.m. Directions: Map Green Sea Floyds Elementary School 5000 Tulip Grove Rd. Green Sea, SC Route Distance: 50 Mile Route Difficulty: Easy Ride Start Time: 8:30 a.m. Route Closes: 5:00 p.m. Directions: Map Sunday Finish Site: The Village at Sunset Beach At the Intersection of Sunset Blvd. (NC 179) and Seaside Rd. (NC 904) Sunset Beach, NC Directions: Map 7

8 Sunday 50-Mile F.A.Q. s How will I get to the start site? Cyclists will be transported to the start site on a free Bike MS shuttle bus. Shuttle buses will pick up at the Bike MS hotels and the YMCA, and take cyclists directly to the 50-mile start site. Shuttle buses to the 50-mile start site will pick up on Sunday morning at 7:30 a.m. What if I don t need a shuttle ride? Cyclists who have their own transportation can click here to download a map and directions to the 50-mile start site. There will be a drop-off zone for cyclist drops-off only. How will my bicycle get to the start site? Cyclists who have chosen the 50-mile route for Sunday will have their bicycles transported to the start site on Saturday evening. Volunteers will be at the finish line in Florence to make sure that your bike is ready for you on Sunday morning no matter where you begin the day. All bicycles transported to Sunday start sites will be stored within a secure bike lock-up area with around-the-clock security. How will my luggage get to the finish site at Sunset Beach? Simply place your luggage on the shuttle bus that takes you to your start site. No matter where you plan to start the day on Sunday, your luggage will be taken safely to the finish line area and await your arrival. What do I need to take with me when I get off the shuttle bus? Cyclists will go directly from the shuttle bus to their bicycles. Be sure you have your helmet, water bottles, and identification. As soon as the route is opened, cyclists can begin the ride. Will there be breakfast served at this start site? Yes. This start site will offer the same, simple start site menu that is featured at the Saturday start sites. Will lunch be served along the 50-mile route? No. There will be a cookout waiting for you at the finish line. 8

9 Monroe Start Site Start Line XXX Cyclists Restricted Area Restrooms / Porta Jons PA System Rest Stop Registra on / Info / Cue Sheets Bicycle Mechanic Parking Luggage Drop X First Aid Temporary parking Overnight Parking Registra on Informa on Cue Sheets MS Staff and Volunteer Parking Overnight Parking Note: Cars le a er 10pm Sunday will be towed at owners expense. Luggage Drop Bike Repair Rest Stop Porta Jons PA First Aid System Medical Cyclists Drop Off Temporary parking for cyclists being dropped off by friends or family. Temporary parking exit 2013 Bike MS Breakaway to the Beach September 21 22, 2013 Central Academy of Arts & Technology, Monroe, NC Saturday Century Start Site Lancaster Avenue / Hwy 200 Brewer Drive 9

10 Kershaw Start Site 2013 Bike MS Breakaway to the Beach September 21-22, 2013 Carolina Motorsports Park - Kershaw, SC Saturday 80 Mile Start Site XXX Cyclists / Saturday Exit Restricted Area Restrooms / Showers PA System Rest Stop Registration / Info / Cue Sheets Bicycle Mechanic Parking Luggage Drop Bike Transport First Aid Food Service XXX XXX XXX XXX XXX XXX Lancaster, SC Kershaw Hwy 521/601 Camden, SC 10

11 Saturday Lunch Stop Business Business Business East Carolina Ave Campus Street X 4th S. Street West Home Avenue Camden Cyclists East College Ave 2013 Bike MS Breakaway to the Beach September 21 22, 2013 Coker College, Hartsville SC Saturday Lunch Stop All Cyclists Super SAG Bus Rest Stop First Aid Bike Repair Food Prep Tent Dining Tent DJ / Music PA System Bike Racks Bike Racks Informa on Net Control Church Bike Transport Porta Jons Coker College Campus XX XXX Cyclists Restrooms / Porta Jons Food Prep / Dining Tents Rest Stop Bicycle Mechanic First Aid Restricted Area DJ / Music PA System Informa on East Carolina Ave Bike Racks Net Control All Cyclists 11

12 Saturday Finish Site X Robert C Scott Drive Bike Lockup Alumni Drive Bike MS Team Tent Village Men s Showers Women s Showers Alumni Drive Bike Repair Bike Transport Luggage Hotel Shuttles Lot D Friends & Family Parking After 10am Dining Tent Porta Jons & Indoor Bathrooms Massage Left Hand Beer Garden & ID Check DJ Music PA System First Aid Medical Event Information & Prize Tent Lot B No Parking Restricted Access Lot C Event Support Vehicles Only Patriot Drive Lot A MS Staff and Volunteer Parking Team Support Parking Friends & Family Parking Lot A will be open between 6am & 10am. After 10am, all parking will be in Lot D Bike MS Breakaway to the Beach September 21-22, 2013 Francis Marion University, Florence, SC Saturday Finish Site For All Cyclists Rest Stop Field of Hope Finish Line Patriot Drive Cyclists Field of Hope Saturday Bike Check In Massage Rest Stop Restrooms / Porta Jons Guarded Bike Lockup Shuttle / SAG Bus Bicycle Mechanic Bike Transport Truck Luggage Area DJ / Music First Aid / Medical PA System Event Information / Prize Tent Parking Dining Tent Showers Left Hand Beer Garden Restricted Area VIP Tent XXX XXX Lunch Ride Parking, Shuttle, & Bike Transport Saturday Bike Check In The Lunch Ride Parking Lot A Shuttle Bus & Bike Transport will Depart at 9:00am. Riders will be dropped off at Coker College to begin the 35 mile Lunch Ride. Francis Marion Rd. Hwy

13 Francis Marion-Sunday Francis Marion Rd. Hwy 327 XX Alumni Drive Alumni Drive Dining Tent Field of Hope Event Informa on No Parking First Aid / Medical Parking Luggage Drop XXX Restricted Area Bicycle Mechanic PA System Guarded Bike Lockup Music Rest Stop SAG Bus Cyclists Restrooms / Porta Jons XXX Robert C Sco Drive Patriot Drive Patriot Drive XXX Lot B No Parking Restricted Access SAG Buses Lot C Event Support Vehicles Only Luggage Field of Hope Bike Lockup Start Line Event Informa on & Prize Tent Bike Rest Stop Repair PA System First Aid Medical Music Dining Tent Porta Jons & Indoor Bathrooms 2013 Bike MS Breakaway to the Beach September 21 22, 2013 Francis Marion University, Florence, SC Sunday Start Site For 100 mile Cyclists XXX Lot D All Parking 13

14 Green Sea Start Site XX XXX Cyclists Restricted Area Restrooms / Porta Jons DJ / Music Dining Tent PA System Rest Stop Informa on Bicycle Mechanic Bike Racks First Aid Net Control Dining Tent Secure Bike Lockup Bike Repair Rest Stop Informa on Cue Sheets 50 Mile Cyclists Start Line Century Cyclists Lunch Stop Start Line First Aid 2013 Bike MS Breakaway to the Beach September 21 22, 2013 Green Sea Floyds Elementary School Sunday 50 Mile Start / Sunday Century Lunch Stop Shu le Bus Drop Off Porta Jons Music / PA Net Control Jay Road Cyclists Drop Off Temporary parking for cyclists being dropped off by friends or family. Bike Transport Super SAG Bus 14

15 Sunset Beach Finish Site Bike Transport Bike To The Beach Park Road Cyclists Shu le/sag Bus Sunday Bike Check In Bike Transport Truck Luggage Area PA System & Music XXX First Aid / Medical Restricted Area Event Informa on Parking Dining Tent No Parking Massage Showers Restrooms / Porta Jons VIP Tent Bike To The Beach Changing Tent 20 x 20 Divided w/ Walls Sunset Blvd. N Food Lion Shu le Dir. Start Site Shu les XXX Sunset Beach Shu les BoA Shu le Staging Area Luggage Event Informa on Bike To The Beach Porta PA System Jons & Music Drink Sta on Sunday Bike Check In Finish Line Dining Tent 2013 Bike MS Breakaway to the Beach September 21 22, 2013 The Village at Sunset Beach Sunday Finish Site For All Cyclists ABC MS Staff and Volunteer Parking First Aid Massage Medical Friday Shu le Parking Sunday Friends & Family Parking Parking Assistant Sunset Blvd. N Seaside Rd. SW 904/179 15

16 Start Preparing Now Accommodations Click here for information about accommodations for Friday night near the Kershaw start site. Saturday Overnight Francis Marion University, Florence, SC Free Indoor Camping Indoor camping will be available at the Florence Family YMCA. Campers will have access to showers, locker rooms, whirlpool, steam room, and pool (if a lifeguard is on duty). The indoor camping is gymfloor style camping and no tents are allowed. Pets, campfires, and alcoholic beverages are also not allowed. Bike MS shuttle service will be provided to the camping location. Click here for information about hotels for Saturday night in Florence, SC. Packet Pick-Up All cyclists who turn in $300 or more by September 9, 2013 will be able to pick up their rider packets at the Charlotte office during the week of September 9 13 from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. In addition, we will do a packet pick-up on September 12 from noon to 7:00 p.m. at Cycle Center (Five Points location, 1001 Harden St.) in Columbia, SC. If you raise $1,000 or more by September 9, you will receive your High Roller Club jersey with your packet. All event participants will pick up their T-shirts at the Information Tent at Francis Marion University on Saturday, September 21. No T-shirts or prizes will be mailed this year. We will also have Check-In and Packet Pick-Up on Friday, September 20 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Monroe and Kershaw start sites. Packets will NOT be mailed this year. We encourage all cyclists to reach the $300 minimum by September 9th in order to get your packet before the ride. Otherwise, you will be able to pick up your packet at your start site the weekend of the ride. Using Your Rider Numbers In your rider packet, you will find five different items printed with your rider number. During the ride you will need to display all five. Helmet Number: The small rectangular sticker is your helmet number and needs to be placed on the front and center of your helmet. Bib Number: The large number with medical information on the back is for your bike jersey. Clearly fill out the emergency medical information on the back with a permanent marker and use the safety pins included in your rider packet to pin the number on the back of your jersey. Bike Frame Number: The rectangular page with the number printed on it twice goes on your bike frame. Fold the sheet over your frame and fasten it using twist ties and the pre-punched holes in the corners. Your bib number and bike frame number must match in order to retrieve your bike from the bike lock up on Sunday morning. Wrist Band: The thin, long band should be worn around your wrist during the weekend of the ride. This will serve as your meal ticket at Coker College, Francis Marion University, and Sunset Beach. Luggage Tag: The long, thin sticker with the number printed twice is your luggage tag. Make sure to put a luggage tag on any bag you leave for our luggage trucks. 16

17 Packing List Recommended items each rider should bring on the route: Helmet REQUIRED Bib number with emergency and medical information completed on back REQUIRED Wristband necessary for beer garden and meals Sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm Cycling apparel (padded bike shorts and/or tights and jersey) Cycling gloves and shoes Light jacket/rain gear Two 24 oz. water bottles and/or hydration pack Tire patch kit, spare tubes, and tire pump Identification card (driver s license) REQUIRED Insurance card with medical information Emergency cash and credit card Any prescription medications Camera with film or memory card/stick In overnight bag (each cyclist is allotted two pieces of luggage): Travel alarm clock Towel for shower truck on Sunday Toiletries, including soap and shampoo Medications Change of clothes for Saturday evening and Sunday Plastic cover for bike seat on Saturday evening Comfortable shoes All overnight bags will be transported for you from your start site to Francis Marion University on Saturday, and then to Sunset Beach on Sunday. When arriving at your start site on Saturday morning, please drop your bags at the specified Luggage Area. Please make sure your bags have either your pre-printed luggage tag (in your packet) OR a tag with your name and rider number. Bags may be claimed at the designated Luggage area at Francis Marion University, then at the finish on Sunday at Sunset Beach. 17

18 FAQs (General Information, Medical, SAGs, Transportation, Training) How can I train for the bike ride? Bike MS: Breakaway to the Beach is a two-day ride across the Carolinas. To complete and enjoy your ride, it is essential that you physically train during the months leading up to the event. For your convenience, the National MS Society works closely with many community rides to ensure that Bike MS cyclists are aware of the wide array of training opportunities before the event. Click here for Bike MS Training Rides. Although the National MS Society may benefit from many of the rides listed, the Society is not responsible for planning or executing these events. Therefore, any questions or concerns about these rides should be directed to the community ride s contact. Will I need to carry identification or medical information? Each participant MUST carry a current driver s license, state I. D. or student I. D. with them at all times. It is imperative that each rider is easily identified should an accident occur. We also require each participant to submit emergency contact information upon registration. This information only will be used if an accident occurs during the event. It is recommended that each cyclist carry medical insurance card/coverage information. Do I have to wear a helmet? Yes. It is a Bike MS Ride requirement that all cyclists are required to wear helmets. Your safety is of the utmost importance to us. When will I receive my rider number, luggage tag and bike number? All cyclists who turn in their $300 or more by September 9 will be able to pick up their packet at the Charlotte office during the week of September 9 13 from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. There will also be a packet pick-up on September 12 from noon until 7:00 p.m. at Cycle Center (1001 Harden St.) in Columbia, SC. Check-In and Packet Pick-Up will also take place from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, September 20 at the Monroe and Kershaw start sites. NO packets will be mailed. We encourage all cyclists to reach the $300 minimum by September 9 in order to pick up your packet before the ride. Otherwise, you will be able to pick up your packet at your start site the weekend of the ride. ***Special Note for Kershaw Cyclists*** We highly encourage you to check in on Friday to avoid delays on Saturday morning. We will need everyone entering the Speedway to sign the Speedway s waiver. This includes family and friends! Avoid the lines and come celebrate with us on Friday! How many pieces of luggage can I bring and how does it get to where I am going? Each rider may bring (2) pieces of luggage that will be tagged to correspond to your rider number. We ask that the bags be no heavier than 50 pounds since volunteers will be loading and unloading the luggage truck. Once you arrive at the start line, drop off your luggage by the Luggage Drop sign. Make sure you have all belongings (identification, bike supplies) that you plan to carry with you before you drop your luggage. Your luggage will be held in a designated area at the overnight site in Florence, SC. Please have your rider bib number handy for the attendants, so they can quickly retrieve your bag for you. Please remember that you are responsible for your luggage as soon as you arrive in Florence. On Sunday morning, you will leave your luggage on the bus that picks you up at your hotel and pick it up by the finish line at Sunset Beach. If you do not ride one of our provided shuttles, you can drop your luggage by the Luggage Drop sign at either of our start sites. 18

19 FAQs (General Information, Medical, SAGs, Transportation, Training) Is there storage for my bike at the overnight location? We offer secured overnight valet bike service with 24-hour security guards at the overnight location in Florence, SC. We highly suggest that you take off any removable equipment, as we are not responsible for lost or damaged items. The secure bike area will be locked from 7:00 p.m. 6:00 a.m. During this time, you will not have access to the secure area no exceptions. Where do I sleep? Most cyclists choose to reserve a hotel room at one of our many partnering hotels near the overnight location in Florence, SC. Free shuttles will be available to all Bike MS partnering hotels and overnight camping location. Free overnight camping (gym floor camping) is available. What type of route support can I expect on the tour? Safety is our number one priority for our riders! Support and Gear Vehicles (SAG) monitor the entire route to help weary riders or offer assistance to those riders who experience mechanical problems. Medical personnel are stationed at the start/finish, as well as at all rest stops should medical attention be needed. We also have a safety crew made up of experienced riders, police officers, medical personnel, HAM radio operators and other law enforcement individuals who will be with you every step of the way. Their expertise and authority will be a valuable asset to assist novice riders and to remind all participants to follow all the rules of the road. What if it rains during the Bike MS? Rain or shine, the 2013 Bike MS Ride still goes on. Is this a race? Bike MS is a ride, not a race. Routes are designed for everyone from the occasional rider to the experienced cyclist. Form a team with friends, family, or co-workers and enjoy an unforgettable weekend! My spouse/co-worker/family member doesn t ride but wants to come support me at the event, what can they do? We need volunteers! There are many volunteer opportunities during Bike MS, including working at rest stops, assisting with set-up, registering cyclists and much more! Register to be a volunteer. Is there a way to park my car in Sunset Beach so that it will be there for me on Sunday? The 2013 Bike MS: Breakaway to the Beach ride will include a Friday shuttle service for all registered cyclists who would like to take advantage of the service. For more information, click here. If I don t have a car or friends/family in Sunset Beach, how do I get back to my start site? At the end of the ride we will transport both you and your bicycle back to your original start site. Shuttle passes cost $40 per person. To purchase a shuttle pass, click here. That includes transportation for both you and your bicycle back to your original Saturday start site. Bicycles are returned on trucks and participants return on air conditioned charter buses. Each bicycle is carefully wrapped and secured in the trucks. Rider numbers must remain on the bike for Sunday transportation. All original start sites will remain open until 9:00 p.m. Sunday night with on-site security personnel. It is the responsibility of each cyclists to pick up their bicycle whenever it arrives at the original start site. Cyclists will be asked to show their rider number and can only pickup bicycles that have a matching bike number. 19

20 Safety Cyclists need to have basic bike-handling skills and safety knowledge in order to keep themselves and others around them safe, especially while participating in group cycling activities, like a bike ride. Our focus is to provide a high quality, safe, and fun bicycling experience. Please remember to always carry: Identification Emergency contact information Insurance card Any important health information Headphones, cell phones, radios, and similar radio devices are not permitted while riding. The Basics of Riding in a Group Group riding takes practice. Riding with other cyclists surrounding you may cause you to feel trapped. Relax. It is most important to create your own safety zone. This may vary depending on the speed and ability level of the people you are with, so be flexible. Let others know of your anxiety they may also be new at this. As a responsible cyclist riding in a pack, you should: Be aware of others around you. Communicate well in advance. Use gestures in combination with verbal commands. Ride with your head up. Look down the road; not at the person in front of you. Maintain control and speed of your bike, even going downhill. Know your limits. Crashes can occur when inexperienced riders do not have bike-handling skills to make quick decisions in a pack. Remember that safety starts with you. Group mentality is not always safe. Expect to stop at all red lights and stop signs it is the law! Each cyclist is responsible for verifying that the intersection is clear. Adjust your safety zone to fit the conditions of the road, weather and traffic. Always plan an escape route. Never overlap your wheels with another cyclist. Do NOT use aerobars in a pack. Be aware of how weather will affect your bike. Riding in wet conditions requires slower speeds and greater breaking distances. Be respectful of other riders. Help others when needed. Bicycle Laws All states consider cyclists to be vehicle operators, and give them the same rights and duties as other drivers. Know and obey all traffic laws: The golden rule of bicycling in a group is Be Predictable! Stay right: Ride in the right portion of the right most lane in the direction you are traveling and leave at least four feet between your handlebars and parked cars or other hazards such as other users. You may move left when passing slower vehicles or preparing for a left turn. Obey all traffic signs and signals: Avoid following the leader through traffic signs and signals; you are required to obey all traffic signs and signals, including stopping at red lights and stop signs. Look and signal before you move: Always scan behind you before changing lanes or making turns. A continuous arm signal is required prior to a turn or lane change (unless arm is needed to control the bike) and while stopped waiting to turn. Two at a time: Ride no more than two abreast and do not impede traffic. If a part of the road has been closed and dedicated to bicycle travel only you may ride more than two abreast. Hands on the handlebars: Do not carry anything that prevents keeping one hand on the handlebars. Pass with care: Do not pass at intersections. 20

21 Safety ABC Quick Check All cyclists are responsible for keeping their riding equipment in good working order, so get into the habit of checking your equipment before every ride. Small adjustments can make a significant difference in your experience. The ABC Quick Check is an overall, yet brief bicycle safety check. A is for air. Check your wheels for worn tires, loose spokes, warped rims, and tires for proper inflation. B is for brakes. Check brakes for function, cable tightness, worn pads, frayed cables, and alignment of the pads with the rims. C is for cranks, chain and cassette. Check your pedals and cranks for tightness. Check for chain looseness and bad links; clean regularly. Lubricate with bicycle chain lube. Check the derailleur for worn cogs and adjustment. Check that your gears change smoothly. Quick is for quick releases. Check to ensure that the wheels are clamped securely in the drop-outs before each ride. Check... Check your handlebar for looseness at the headset and stem. Check your helmet for cracks and make sure it fits properly. Check your shoes for tight cleats and straps and buckles in good repair. Make sure your bicycle saddle is the right height and the bolt is tight. Hydration Knowing how to optimize your fluid intake is critical to successfully completing Breakaway to the Beach. One bottle per hour: The rule of thumb is to drink one bottle per hour and supplement with sports drinks at least every third bottle for extreme fatigue, the inability to recover your energy, or frequent muscle cramps, seek early signs of dehydration. Seeking medical assistance: If you find that you experience weight gain/bloating with progressive symptoms such as swollen hands and feet, confusion, throbbing headache, dizziness or nausea, please seek assistance from first aid. Be Helmet Smart Head injuries are a special concern for cyclists. Even falling at a slow rate of speed can cause a serious head injury. Helmets must be on your head and strapped while riding in a Bike MS event no exceptions. 21

22 Safety Helpful Tips On Bike MS Events, our active route support team works to make the ride safe. Here are a few additional suggestions to help keep everyone safe on the ride: Thumbs down for help: SAG vehicles and motorcycle escorts will stop for you if you are off the road, off your bike, and giving a thumbs down sign or holding your helmet in the air. Ride marshal support: A special team of cyclists called Ride Marshals provide support on the rides. They offer minor mechanical help along the route and monitor cycling safety and etiquette. Rest stop etiquette: All cyclists who enter a rest area must pull over, dismount and move completely away from the road and rest-stop entrance. When exiting, move beyond the rest area and proceed with caution on the right side of the road before merging with faster cyclists. Passing: Passing others and being passed occurs continuously during the ride. Call out passing on your left and allow time for the cyclist being overtaken to move to the right then pass safely. Mechanical problems: Examine your bike for mechanical problems before getting on the road. If you have a problem you can contact a mechanic at the start or SAG to the next rest stop. Know the Lingo Group cycling has its own form of communication. The presence of road hazards, directions, and need-to-know information is relayed through the pack of riders by gestures and words. Remember to pass all communication on to the next cyclist behind you in the group. Speak loudly and clearly. The following are the most common terms you may hear in group-sponsored rides: On your left: This means a rider is approaching your left side. Allow room to pass. Car back: This means a car is approaching from the rear. All riders should make an effort to alert riders of cars approaching. In most states, the law requires cyclists to ride no more than two abreast. This ensures passing is easier and safer for the cyclists. Gravel - Pothole - Sand - Tracks: Each of these messages is to alert the riders behind you of hazardous road conditions. The words are combined with the gesture of pointing to the hazard well in advance. Flat: This indicates that a rider has suffered a flat tire. Allow enough room for the rider to slow down and move to the right side of the road or trail for repair. Offer assistance if needed. Slowing: The cyclist in front of you is slowing down. Use caution and prepare to stop. Many cyclists use the palm of their hand toward riders behind them to indicate slowing and stopping. Stopping: This indicates that a rider ahead is stopping. Do not forget to unclip from your pedals. Because communication is so important, headphones are not allowed on Bike MS events. 22

23 Safety Special Situations Many cyclists find that situations occur in which quick thinking and heightened bike-handling skills are required. Here are some suggestions for managing potential obstacles: Cars can be scary. Drivers do not know your skill level, and will often not leave room when they pass. Give them the room. In a group, call out car back and move to the far right in a single file. Be predictable. Beware of animals. Knowing how to handle depending on the situation. You may want to slow down, outsprint the dog, or yell stop, no or go home. Distracting a dog with a water bottle should only be used when you are not in a pack. Try to keep to one side of the dog. Let others know of your intentions. Pedestrians, joggers, and animals have the right-of-way. Signal the pack that someone is being overtaken and move to allow room for safe passing. Riding in Inclement Weather Carolina weather, like the symptoms of multiple sclerosis, can be unpredictable. Follow these techniques to stay safe in less than ideal conditions: Allow for longer braking distances. Brake more gently on slick surfaces and use the front brake less. Turn and accelerate more gently to prevent sliding on slick surfaces. Pay special attention to other slick surfaces, such as manhole covers, painted traffic markings, and oil slicks. Be prepared to put a foot down for balance. After riding in the rain, lubricate your bike chain to help prevent rusting. Thank you in advance for your help in keeping Bike MS: Breakaway to the Beach a safe and enjoyable event for everyone! Help us leave a great impression on the people of the Carolinas so that communities and neighborhoods continue to embrace this great tradition. Safety Safety Safety Safety 23

24 Fundraising As you know, each Bike MS participant is required to raise a minimum of $300. The majority of riders go above and beyond that amount and you can too! Your fundraising efforts can earn you some great prizes. LEVEL FUNDRAISING AMOUNT PRIZE Level 1 $800 1, $50 Bike Shop Gift Certificate Level 2 $1,300 $2, $75 Bike Shop Gift Certificate Level 3 $2,500 $4, $100 Bike Shop Gift Certificate Level 4 $5,000 $7, $150 Bike Shop Gift Certificate Level 5 $7,500 $9, $200 Bike Shop Gift Certificate OR Tour of Champions Level 6 $10,000 + $300 Bike Shop Gift Certificate OR Tour of Champions In addition to the Bike Shop gift certificate, those cyclists that raise $1,000 or more will reach the elite High Roller Club and will receive a High Roller Club jersey! Many of our cyclists aim for the High Rollers level to receive lots of perks and prizes. For some great ideas to help increase your fundraising total, click here Top Fundraisers 2012 Bike MS raised $770,000 to create a world free of MS! Thank you to all of our 2012 participants for your phenomenal support of Bike MS. We sincerely appreciate your recruitment and fundraising efforts for last year s event. The money raised will be used to fund cutting-edge MS research, life-changing programs and services, and policy-sculpting advocacy efforts. Thank you for riding or volunteering to create a world free of multiple sclerosis Top 10 Fundraisers 1. Bill Allen... $36, Dick Robberts... $15, Jeff Lax... $14, Patrick Golden... $14, Rick McDermott... $11, Tim Shain... $8, Phyllis Martin... $7, Wes Martin... $7, Scott Krueger... $6, Kelly Milligan... $6, Top 10 Teams 1. Hall of Foam Heroes... $68, Y Xtreme Team... $59, Bank of America... $56, Phyllis Flyers... $30, Rank Riders... $25, Blood Sweat & Gears... $18, Bikeaneers... $17, Grand Strand Cycling Club... $16, Perez Pedalers... $15, The Hobnobbers... $14,117 24

25 Official Bike Shops These are the official sponsoring bike shops of the 2013 Bike MS: Breakaway to the Beach. We could not provide the excellent mechanical support found on route with out these phenomenal shops. Visit these shops and thank them for supporting Bike MS! To visit a bike shop s website, click on its name. North Carolina Concord Sun & Ski Sports 8381 Concord Mills Blvd. Concord, NC Charlotte Bicycle Sport 2916 Selwyn Ave. Charlotte, NC The Bike Gallery 2500 Park Rd. Charlotte, NC Bike Line of Charlotte 8528 University City Blvd. Suite M Charlotte, NC BikeSource 4301-A Park Rd. Charlotte, NC Performance Bicycle 4436 South Blvd. Charlotte, NC Sun & Ski Sports 5341 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy. Charlotte, NC Trek Bicycle Store Perimeter Pkwy. Charlotte, NC Ultimate Bicycle 1636 Sardis Rd. North Suite 170 Charlotte, NC Matthews Mojo Cycles 195 N. Trade St. Matthews, NC Mooresville Cool Breeze Cyclery 124 Trade Ct. Suite F Mooresville, NC Sunset Beach Island Hoppers Bicycle Products 7161 Beach Dr. SW Sunset Beach, NC South Carolina Columbia Cycle Center 1001 Harden St. Columbia, SC Cycle Center 9003 Two Notch Rd. Columbia, SC Florence Phil s Bicycle World 2519 W. Palmetto St. Florence, SC Rock Hill Rock Hill Bike Shop 1636 Ebenezer Rd. Rock Hill, SC