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    • 2021 New Committee and AGM minutes
      • There was a large attendance at the AGM, held on 16th June 2021 in the Library meeting room Paraparaumu.  (see full Minutes below) Gary Clareburt handed the reins as President over the Glynis Te Maipi-Kemp, who previously held the role of Secretary.  Gary summarised the achievements of the Club's year, including raising membership numbers, introducing membership cards, a junior membership, development of a flier for local group rides, the running of the Club's 3rd 12-week introductory course, and a successful summer season of Club nights, for which sponsorship had been attained to provide prizes.  Gary will remain active on the Committee as Club Captain. Several new members joined the committee, including Serena Scotcher (Secretary), Greg Overton and Bruce Edgar, who join Greg Cundy, Janice Hill, Gill Donald (Treasurer) as Committee members.  Retiring Committee members Eddie Bright, Dave Downer and Neil Harwood were thanked for their service.  AGM – 16 June 2021 Meeting start 7.30PM Apologies: Penny Mikkelson, Andy Ross, Eddie Bright, Jo Warren  Minutes from last meeting/AGM Confirm minutes from last AGM Statement of accounts Presidents report Elect officers – committee of the club General Business Glynis – reads minutes from last AGM Moved: Adrian McKenzie, Seconded: Tony Levaggi Treasurers Report Gill Donald Up to March 2021 58 paying members as of Mar We have some surplus $’s - mainly from membership, racing fees and the sponsorship that Gary Clareburt was able to put in place Presidents Report No questions To be attached. Election of Officers Outgoing – Dave D, Neil H, Eddie President Gary Clareburt standing down Nominee – Glynis Te Maipi-Kemp In favour - all Not in favour Treasurer – Gill Donald Nominee – Gill Donald I In favour - all Not in favour Secretary – Nominee – Serena Scotcher In favour - all Not in favour Committee Eddie Bright – standing down, Neil Harwood – standing down, Dave Downer – standing down Greg Cundy, Janice Hill Nominee – Greg Cundy Nominee – Janice Hill Nominee – Greg Overton Nominee – Bruce Edgar Club Captain Nominee – Gary Clareburt No further nominations tonight. Moved: Gary Clareburt Seconded: Katie Richards Prize Giving Junior Under 19 Rider of the Year: Millie Donald Junior Under 19 Male Rider of the Year: James De Hair Junior 15 and Under Rider of the Year: Euan Mason Most improved Junior: Oscar Goodwin Most Promising Junior: Liam Parkes 65+ Rider of the Year: Ian Fraser (cert) Nominees: John Rowlinson Most Improved Woman – Serena Scotcher Nominees: Judith Taylor, Penny Mikkelson Most Improved Man – Rob Scotcher Nominees: David Cunningham, Phil Cocker, Steve Gregan, Doug Barrett Club Spirit – Glynis Te Maipi-Kemp and Adrian McKenzie Nominees: Di Borman Stu Downs Inspirational Rider – Dave Downer Nominees: Rob S, Serena S Male rider of the year: Paul Rawlinson Nominees: Mike Proudfoot, Tom Gollins Female Rider of the year – Di Borman Nominees: Katie Richards General Business Website Janice Hill Update on the new web platform being put together for KCC. Platform used is Sporty. Hoping that this will be live in 2 – 3 weeks. The joining process and entry to events should be a lot easier – and will include online payment. It should be a ‘one stop shop’. Quite a lot of the current content will be migrated over. Analytics from the site will also be available to those looking after the site to enable better insights to what is working/not working, and tailor content to suit. Online Shop for Kit Janice Hill Store is being opened again, with all the kit we had, plus three new products for the team store: female bibs, mens bibs and a shower-proof jacket. Winter Series Janice Hill, Gary Clareburt A poster has been produced to advertise our Winter Series which will be held on four consecutive Saturdays July to August. This will be a big club event and we’ve had good feedback already on out-of-towners signing up for it. Early bird reminder for both club and non-club entries. A callout for assistance as this is a big job to put on No further General Business or questions from the floor. Meeting closed 8.01pm

    • Five KCC Juniors to compete at North Island School Road Championships!
      • This weekend, 5 of our youngest club members will be heading up to Cambridge for the Skoda North Island School Road Championships.  Liam Parkes, Oscar Goodwin, Millie Donald, Euan Mason and James De Hair will be competing for their respective schools in this prestigious event which will feature much of the top cycling talent in the country and is a proven stepping stone into the international ranks and our past and present Olympians.  The event, which will host over 500 competitors, is based around Karapiro, and our riders will be competing in a road race on Saturday followed by a criterium around the Lake Karapiro domain on Sunday.  The larger school teams also have a team time trial on Saturday morning.  The races and results are likely to be dominated by the powerhouse schools of Auckland and Cambridge, but our riders should be able to get stuck in and look to achieve their own personal goals.  Most importantly for schools racing, the event should be a great weekend away gaining experience and having fun.   Millie Donald will be hanging around Cambridge for the North Island and National Schools Track Championships over the following two days, competing in four events in an omnium format (each event contributing points to an overall score).  This event always proves a challenge with no opportunity to train specifically for the event for riders based away from Cambridge, so the emphasis on this one again is about having fun, gaining experience and catching up with friends.   We wish the best of luck to all of our riders in Cambridge this weekend!

    • Have a say in Active Transport Modes
      • Here is an online event coming up that some people might be interested in... Here are the details... You can register online at https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/e/designing-low-carbon-townships-in-kapiti-tickets-160897826731 Designing low-carbon townships in Kāpiti: What would make active transport modes more attractive to all of us? A community dialogue on how Active Transport Modes can be made safe, encouraged and widely adopted towards a low-carbon Kāpiti. About this event Kāpiti Coast District Council’s draft ‘growth’ strategy envisages up to 30,000 additional people making Kāpiti their home in coming decades. This creates an urgent demand for affordable housing. But to reduce transport emissions we need to avoid sprawl and to enable people to shift to lower emission forms of transport. Kāpiti is well-placed, being flat and relatively compact, to develop into a series of well-connected low-carbon active-mode townships. This event will feature two of New Zealand’s leading urban design and active transport thinkers: Heidi O'Callahan https://www.greaterauckland.org.nz/2020/11/11/policy-on-low-traffic-neighbourhoods/ and Kirsty Wild https://unidirectory.auckland.ac.nz/profile/k-wild They will share ideas on how to ensure Kāpiti’s future development is on a low-carbon trajectory that protects and makes the most of our wonderful environment and lifestyle. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with the guest speakers and Kāpiti cycling advocates and share their ideas with the group.

    • 2021 Club Kit Store is open
      • Time flies!  It's been four years since we launched our new KCC kit, so its with great pleasure that we declare the 2021 Club Kit shop officially open!!  (the last day for orders is Weds 7th July)   click here to go through to the store to start shopping! https://www.tineli.co.nz/order/ktabx/catalog   What's new for 2021? - A brand new Pro Rain Jacket (unisex) - Brand new, Pro Elite Bibs (top off the range), in Mens and Women's (* see note below) specific fit - all new chamois and new bib top - A women's fit Race Vest - Ability to buy non-branded Tineli kit on the same order   What's not new? - Amazing quality - testament that so much of the original kit is still going strong! - 100+ item pricing, even on the new products - 3 weeks to decide what you need and place your order! We only open the kit store once or twice a year, so don't delay! - only current members can order Club kit (remember - its only $55 to join, and at our special prices, you will easily make this back!) - the Club does not generally hold stock, so please order directly from the Tineli store   Delivery when you place your order you can choose to have it delivered to your door for $10, or choose to have it delivered to the Club manager and pick up from Paraparaumu Beach for free.    Non-Kit Items Once you have selected your KCC items, you will find you can order non-branded kit items, such as plain arm-warmers and thermal winter gloves, as part of your order.  This is a new feature to complement the KCC branded range, and save you freight.  It also supports the special pricing we receive from Tineli.    * Women's bibs - these are the new design that we let our female members know about a few weeks ago.  These are brand, brand new - in fact, they aren't quite ready yet and we will be the first in the world to have them!  Order with your other items and they will be delivered separately in a few months' time - freight free.  

    • Trophy and Award Winners 2021
      • The season was celebrated at the annual prizegiving and AGM tonight. Congratulations to all those awarded and nominated for the awards. Junior Under 19 Rider of the Year: Millie Donald Junior Under 19 Male Rider of the Year: James De Hair (certificate)  Junior 15 and Under Rider of the Year: Euan Mason (certificate)  Most Improved Junior: Oscar Goodwin (certificate)  Most Promising Junior: Liam Parkes (certificate)  Most Improved Woman: Serena Scotcher  (also nominated Judith Taylor, Penny Mikkelson)   Most Improved Man: Rob Scotcher (also nominated David Cunningham, Phil Cocker, Steve Gregan, Doug Barrett) Stu Downs - Inspirational Rider: Dave Downer (also nominated Rob Scotcher, Serena Scotcher) Veteran 65+ Rider of the Year:  Ian Fraser (certificate) (also nominated John Rowlinson)   Club Spirit: Glynis Te Mapai Kemp & Adrian McKenzie  (certificate) (also nominated Dianna Borman) Female Rider of Year: Dianna Borman (also nominated Katie Richards) Male Rider of the Year: Paul Rawlinson  (also nominated Mike Proudfoot, Tom Gollins) Hill Climb Trophy Female: Katie Richards Hill Climb Trophy Male: Mark Donald Road Race Trophy Female: Katie Richards Road Race Trophy Male: Tom Gollins Time Trial Trophy Female: Katie Richards Time Trial Trophy Male: Mike Proudfoot     

    • Tineli Kapiti Cycling Club Winter Series - Registration is now open!
      • Pre-registration is now open for the Tineli KCC Winter Series.  Pre-register HERE The Kapiti Cycling Club presents the Tineli Winter Series of graded road races, and welcomes all riders.  Races will be run for grades A through to D plus the Social Circuit grade (see below).  Points will be awarded for placings in all grades.  After the final event (7th August), a Prizegiving and afternoon tea will be held at the Hall and prizes will be awarded (Tineli gift vouchers). https://www.tineli.co.nz/ Entry fee is $30 for non-members and $15 for KCC members per race, or if you pre-register and pay for all 4 races before Sunday 11 July,  pay only $80 for non-members and $40 for KCC members.   Pre-register HERE Course is the same as previous years and is a 20km loop. https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/4296974122&source=gmail&ust=1620714649657000&usg=AFQjCNHzxwr41FeMKYVdEDPtzVPpcy1Lhg">https://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/4296974122 Social Circuit* = 1 lap 20km* D grade = 2 laps 40km C grade = 2 laps 40km B grade = 3 laps 60km A grade = 3 laps 60km Please register before 12.30pm, Te Horo Beach Community Hall, School Rd, Te Horo.  After the ride, please join us for coffee and cake (only $8) at Ruth Pretty's Garden Room, School Rd https://www.ruthpretty.co.nz/pages/the-garden-room   Winners will be announced there, along with Ruth's Rider of the Day - sponsored by Ruth Pretty - a voucher for coffee and cake for two.  *Social Circuit - is a no-drop group ride over one lap until 1km to go, then an optional sprint finish!

    • KCC in the news
      • Recently there was a little piece in the local papers about our Summer Series Champ Euan Mason receiving his trophy from series sponsor Ceinwen (Howard and Co).  Now it is in the online version too! https://www.kcnews.co.nz/2021/05/09/euan-mason-wins-howard-co-summer-series/ Congratulations Euan and very many thanks Ceinwen - we loved having prizes to give away every week!! Thank you to everyone who rode, helped out and supported. Soon the Winter Series will be upon us!

    • Howard & Co Summer Series Trophy Awarded
      • Our winner of the Howard & Co Summer Series, 15 year old Euan Mason, received his trophy from series sponsor Ceinwen Howard today.   Euan competed in C grade at the Tuesday Club nights held at Southwards Car Museum and Nga Manu Reserve Rd, taking out the series with the most points in a tightly fought points race across the 4 grades (A to D).   Find all results here:

    • Website Update about to get underway
      • We’re about to start revamping our Club website, and would love to hear from users (that's you, if you're reading this!) what you'd like in future. Our ears are open and we're up for your honest feedback!  What features do you love, or love to hate, or are simply not here for you to love?!   We've created a short survey to help collate your feedback. We really value your input into this project, your answers will help us create the best website.  https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2R6BPL8   thanks in advance!  

    • Come Ride With Us flier
      • Two club members returned from (separate) holidays to Whitianga with a little flier of local group rides in the district, both with the same thought: "we should do that".  And now we have!! With permission from other local groups, including the Kapiti Kruzers, Mid-week Kruzers and others, we've put together a flier to promote various group rides in Kapiti.  Under the banner 'Come Ride With Us', we've also detailed KCC Club rides. "This is another small step towards fulfilling the Club's mission to be the centre of cycling on the Kapiti Coast.  We hope it will encourage more residents and visitors to join with like-minded locals to explore our district's great biking network," said Club President, Gary Clareburt. We will place the fliers in key places for visitors to find, such as local bike and sports shops, libraries, cafes, tourist attractions and holiday parks.   It will also be available from the Go By Bike day breakfast, held on Weds 17th Feb, 6.30-9am at Paraparaumu library.  

    • Howard & Co Summer Series Points Update 2nd March
      • The battle for the Summer Series trophy is hotting up with a lead change this week (from Doug Barrett to Euan Mason).  Euan is on 77 points, but Doug is currently on 75 and Mike Proudfoot is not far behind on 72 points! With 2 more races to go at Nga Manu, and the total points contenders across 3 grades, this looks like a nail biter! A Grade Points Mike Proudfoot 72 Leon Goodwin 52 Katie Richards 54 Tom Gollins 42 Paul Rawlinson 16 B Grade Points Points Dwight Garton 69 Gary Clareburt 67 Lee Pownell 58 James de Hair 59 Jon Cox 8 Rhys Evans 8 C Grade Points Euan Mason 77 John Rawlinson 56 Adrian McKenzie 46 Kerry Graham 27 John Pratt 23 Dave Downer 25 Ian Fraser 16 Ian Cooke 27 Fraser Beggs 8 Tony Levaggi 14 Andy Ross 17 Tristan Ratcliffe 6 Dean Arthur 5 Alex Bissel 4 D Grade Points Doug Barrett 75 Daryl Flaws 51 Francis de Hair 41 Liam Parkes 35 Steve Gregan 27 David Cunningham 28 Ryyszard Balejko 30 Glynis TMK 12 Alex Arthur 7 Bill Richards 5 Oscar Goodwin 12

    • Howard & Co Summer Series Points Update
      • Here are the total points after 4 Southwards & 1 Nga Manu races.  There will be prizes for each grade and a very impressive trophy for the overall winner! A Grade Points Mike Proudfoot 62 Leon Goodwin 44 Katie Richards 39 Tom Gollins 27 Paul Rawlinson 16 B Grade Points Dwight Garton 57 Gary Clareburt 57 Lee Pownell 50 James de Hair 44 Jon Cox 8 C Grade Euan Mason 62 John Rawlinson 49 Adrian McKenzie 38 Kerry Graham 27 John Pratt 23 Dave Downer 20 Ian Fraser 16 Ian Cooke 15 Ryyszard Balegato 12 Fraser Beggs 8 Oscar Goodwin 8 Tony Levaggi 8 Andy Ross 7 Tristan Ratcliffe 6 Dean Arthur 5 Alex Bissel 4 D Grade Doug Barrett 67 Daryl Flaws 44 Francis de Hair 37 Liam Parkes 29 Steve Gregan 24 David Cunningham 18 Ryyszard Balegato. 15 Glynis TMK 12 Alex Arthur 7 Bill Richards 5

    • Kapiti Belgie and Dutchie Ride.
      •  I was watching GCN the other day and they put up some challenges that they were extolling people to try in 2021.  One of them was to do a Belgie Ride. What's a Belgie Ride I hear you ask?   Well, it involves the 'spirit' of hard Belgian riding and racing.  Belgians have a reputation for being tough bike riders and Belgium for having tough conditions with events that take in cobbles and dirt tracks and rough terrain.  So it's a fast ride on a road bike but over mixed surfaces that involves alleyways, cobbles, grass, as well as road.   The idea is to do this with two grades, as a fast group ride, that's really pushing the pace when it's safe to do so (we'd be riding on pedestrian routes some of the time - so would have to be sensible and call things off for the group when other people are around).   The people at Curve bikes in Melbourne are the leaders of this and they do a weekly 6:30 am Belgie that is 50km.  It's really popular and they have unbelievably good riders taking part in it (multiple world champs and pros in different disciplines)   They also run at the same time - a slower-paced 'Dutchie' ride that goes over the same route but takes in a few shortcuts where possible.  I imagine the Dutchie ride will pick up some of those spat out by the Belgie :)      What a cool idea I thought...  This ticks lots of boxes - great fitness, it's playing on bikes, and amazing for your bike handling skills.  It's everything that encompasses the sheer joy of riding a bike, isn't it?   The thought is to fit it in on a weekend at some stage with an early start.   The route I have come up with, starts and finishes at Weka Park so it would make sense to reconvene at No 6 cafe afterward for a debrief. But to gauge interest and also to learn the circuit.  What we have on offer now is a Belgie Recce Ride - where we will ride the circuit and learn the ins and outs.   Start time:  6:30pm Date:  25th February Location: Weka Park, Raumati Beach Distance: 48km Fun: Unlimited What to bring: Lights and a sense of adventure. Check out the Curve Cycling Belgie ride below.  And below that - have a good study of the route I've come up with.  There are potentially lots of sections on there that you haven't ridden before.  A few of us have ridden it to test it out and loved it.  Lots of fun and smiles...  (I would suggest 25mm tyres at a minimum.  Though Glynis rides it on her racing bike with no issues whatsoever) Here's the link to the GCN bit that sparked the idea...   https://youtu.be/p21Mz7kOr9k?t=249       Create Routes or Search for a route from millions at MapMyRide  

    • Southwards Event Series - This evening's event cancelled
      • Southwards Summer Series – Event One Tuesday 19th January 2021 Once again, the weather gods are against us, the event planned for this evening is unfortunately cancelled due to the strong winds and heavy rain forecast. Fingers crossed for good weather next week, see you all then. Stay Safe

    • New Membership Cards for the New Year
      • Happy New Year! Here's to lots of fun riding in 2021!! Our Club membership works on a calendar year, i.e. Jan to Dec each year, so now is the time to renew your membership, or join up! This year we have printed NEW Club membership cards, which you can flash at various places for discounts and general kudos.  This year there are three forms of membership; Club, Club and Race License (that's with NZCycling), and a new Junior membership. Read more about the types here. Club membership is $55 per year - and entitles you to enter all the Club's events for the member's price, plus provides you with public liability insurance.  Even if you don't race, supporting the Club helps us to continue our good work, including advocacy and development of riders through skills sessions and coach-led training.  Click here to renew or start your membership. Please enter your details in the form at the bottom of the page and then pay by online banking using your name as a reference.  Club plus Race Licence - entitles you to all the Club membership benefits, plus a licence to race at national and Cycling NZ affiliated events.  To renew or start this type of membership, follow this link to the Cycling NZ membership system.  Junior Club Licence - this provides all the benefits of the Club license for those 15 and under for only $25 per year.  We want to keep encouraging our younger riders and this is a huge saving if you are under 15 and would like to ride in some of the Tuesday night events.  A reminder that Club nights resume on Tuesday 19th January, we hope to see you there! And we also want to let you know that a new intake of the Kapiti Good Bunch (12-week structured training course) will begin on Sunday 24th January. If you know of anyone who would like to start, or get back into, riding please pass this message onto them! Best wishes for a happy and safe year of riding in 2021!  

    • KCC gives back at Christmas
      • Today, KCC proudly gave the Kapiti Food Bank a cheque for $250.  As a gesture of goodwill and thanks to those who have supported us throughout 2020, we decided to donate all the entry fees from the last Tuesday club night held at Southwards, and the Club rounded this up to $250.  We thank all of you who have come along to the Tuesday night races, and especially our sponsor, Howard & Co, whose sponsorship has enabled the nightly prizes.  Merry Christmas everyone  

    • Everesting opportunity
      • "Because in the end you won’t remember the time you spent working in the office or mowing your lawn.  Climb that goddam mountain" Jack Kerouac Ever considered having a go at Everesting?  It’s a simple concept…  Pick a single hill and ride repeats until you’ve climbed the height of Mt Everest (8848m).  Once you complete the challenge you get to put your name in the ‘Everesting Hall of Fame’ and if you chose a hill nobody has Everested on before – you get to get the wonderful Asterix next to your name indicating you have completed the First Known Ascent.  You also qualify to wear the beautiful Everesting kit that is a badge of honor for Everesters the world over. Glynis and I are committing to do this as a way to get our lazy arses training consistently, and as a great way to get us fit for the possible “Ride Across Australia” we had planned before Covid put paid to it.  Sometimes having a huge goal that seems impossible is the catalyst you need 😊 (that’s what we’re hoping anyway) So, we are looking at the end of April or early May 2021.  This will give us the time to train and diet (speaking for me only here) enough to get in shape to tackle this.  And to be clear, there's no way either of us could do this at the moment.  It's going to take a lot of commitment to training and dieting between now and then to pull this off. We’ve recce’d a hill that is close to home and simple and short but quite punchy. This means lots of repeats but shortens the length of the ride considerably (to under 200km – as opposed to over 300km if you did in on the Akatarawa climb from Waikanae for instance).  The thinking is that the short length gives lots of rests, and the non-technical nature of the route means it’s a very simple descent – even when you’re tired. WHO WANTS TO JOIN US? We’ve been doing a wee bit of research and It turns out that the First Known Ascent badge will also be given out to groups if you are part of a bunch of people who Everest on the same climb on the same day…  Wahoo! We are planning on doing it as a fundraiser for something – though we haven’t landed on which one just yet.  And we would love company. That doesn’t mean riding together the whole way, it just means we’re all on the hill at the same time giving each other moral support and having a shared base camp. If you want to know more come round for a cuppa on Sat 19th of Dec at around 4PM – or email me on adriangmckenzie@gmail.com if you are interested but can’t make that time. We can lay out the plan more fully and talk through options. One of the options might be to try something I’m calling Aorakiing or Mt Cooking (which sounds ominous!). That’s a pretty, cover-up name for doing a practice run on the same hill closer to the time, and once we’re trained a bit, climbing the equivalent of Aoraki/Mt Cook – which is 42% of Everest at 3724m. Even if you aren’t sure you can do this, but are interested in knowing more, come along and learn a bit more about it. HELP ME GET THERE? There is another option if you’re keen but don’t think the whole thing is possible for you…   I’m thinking of doing the event on Ted’s tandem (I might need to get a little fitter to see whether this is even in the realms of possibility) and inviting other people to join me for sections of the ride.  So, if you don’t want to commit to doing the whole thing sign up to help power me up the climb a few times.  That doesn’t mean you get to not train though… I only want good strong legs on the front! 😉 Cheers Adrian.

    • The Kapiti Good Bunch January 2021. A 12 week structured training group.
      • Howdy all Want to grow your fitness and cycling abilities in 2021? Perhaps your New Year’s Resolution is to take on a fitness challenge? Lose weight? Train smarter? This January we are kicking off another 12-week program aimed at people who want to take their riding to the next level.  These really popular groups see people thriving with new skills, confidence, and grown abilities.  And we all get to make new friends along the way.  The graduates from the previous two 12-week bunches will also tell you how much fun it is.  Some of the skills and rides we do will be challenging at times, but that's when we learn, when we're stretching our abilities. So come and stretch yourself with us in a totally encouraging environment. If you want to know how to take the first steps, grow your ability to the point where you can confidently tackle a big cycling challenge, and actually enjoy yourself doing it, then read on… Does any of this sound like you? You’ve got the basics but want to take it further? You want to return to the level of fitness you’ve had in the past (and possibly then some)? You think you’ll enjoy belonging to a group that will encourage, motivate, and grow with you? You're new to cycling but have some degree of fitness from other sports? You’re keen to enjoy the confidence and big benefits of riding in a bunch? You want to save time by learning from experienced and qualified coaches? This is a 12-week stepped cycling program aimed at enabling you to take on the likes of the Taupo Cycle Challenge, K1 or 2, Iron Maori, The Graperide, and any number of other endurance events up and down the country.  This is NOT a program for ‘guns’ or expert cyclists, nor will it put unrealistic expectations on anyone. It is aimed at people who can currently ride between 30 and 50km comfortably. There is a big focus on skill development.  During the 12 weeks you’ll also learn, or be refreshed on such things as, what to wear, what essentials to bring on a ride, how to change a tyre, good cycle etiquette, eating and drinking ‘on the move’, and the best coffee places for that all-important post-ride chat. The rides will start at an easy level of both distance and speed, accommodating all in the group. Over time the distance covered will increase and we’ll learn good bunch-riding skills, while gradually improving fitness and confidence Once the program is complete riders should feel confident enough to move to one or more of the regular rides happening in the area, which continue all year round. What’s included: Entry to the 12 weeks of structured group sessions and rides. Weekly progressive skills drills lead by qualified Cycling NZ coaches. Weekly email updates about the upcoming route, with hints and tips included. A year’s membership to Kapiti Cycling Club with access to a full calendar of challenges and events that comes with that. Cost: $55 per person to cover the full 12-week program (incredibly good value at just over $4.50 a session.  The organisers, leaders and coaches are all members of the Kapiti Cycling Club and give their time and effort entirely voluntarily. When and Where: The first session will be Sunday 24th January 2021 There is a good chance the weather will mean we miss a couple of weeks - so it'll run for approximately 14 weeks. All 12 weeks will begin outside Farmers at the back of Coastlands, Paraparaumu at 8.10AM. Other regular groups also leave from this point so don’t be concerned if you see some flash gear rolling around; chances are they’re not with your group. What to bring: There are all sorts of opinions on ‘the essentials’ to bring on a ride. But if we pare that down to the necessities then you should have the following: A roadworthy road bike A helmet A spare tube or two Everything else we can cover as we go. See below for basic details of each week's session How to Join: Joining is easy - simply do an online transfer to the Cycling Club Bank account 03-0732-0020082-00. Use your name and "KGB" in the reference. And contact Glynis (glyntmk@hotmail.com) to let her know you have done so. (if you are already a member of the club then you don't need to do this - just contact Glynis to let her know you want to join the group)  Program for the Kapiti Good Bunch At the beginning of each ride, the ride leader will discuss for max 5 minutes the ‘theme of the week’ (see below). Each ride will build upon things covered previously as well as in distance and time (unless it is the hill-climbing or cornering weeks where we will go out and practice this stuff in the real world) We will start every session with 20 mins of coach lead - skills work, which will progress as people improve.   We will finish every ride with a bunch “debrief” at a local café.   Week 1: Welcome Introductions Collect email addresses Explain the route for today (this will happen each week) 1.5 hour ride the first week. Explain the plans for the 12 weeks We all stop when somebody needs/wants to stop (puncture, change clothes etc) Always communicate What kit should you have and do people have? (tube, tyre levers, pump) Pre-ride checks ABC and Q No problem if you miss a week: check with others about the theme you missed Email the coordinators about whatever Keywords.  “Hello, my name is…”   “On time is late” Week 2: Bunch riding Signals (arm on back, gravel, point out potential hazards, slowing and stopping) At the head of the group, you’re the eyes of the bunch and should initiate calls that get relayed back. Shout ‘clear’ on crossings (if clear J) and ‘car back’ when cars want to pass.  But everyone is responsible for themselves, make your own mind up about when it’s safe. Some activities you only do when you’re at the back: nose-blowing or drinking/eating (unless you have that fully under control) When you’re at the back: communicate in time when there is a split in the group: ‘Ease!’ Discussion on when to focus your attention. Communicate!  Lots of talking. Keywords: smooth and consistent. Week 3: Clothing Gloves: padding, nose-wiping, sweaty hands are slippery No underwear: chafing cream Padded shorts (if not all are wearing them already) Close-fitting clothing is a lot more aerodynamic…  Less matches burnt. Comfort is key – try out different kit to find what works KCC kit is wonderful Keywords:  Comfort, and efficiency Week 4:  Confidence Body language (taking the lane, signaling intentions, holding your line) Communicating: with other riders in your bunch and with car-drivers. Make sure other road-users always know where you’re going.   Acknowledging people positively. Knowing where to brake – especially in the wet. Staying out of the door zone Railway lines and painted lines – crossing at right angles. Keywords:  Positive and confident. Week 5: Rotating A rotating group maximises efficiency and can travel way faster than an individual. Advantage of drafting Rotating techniques (depends on the wind, importance to ‘wait’ once you’re leading, make it ‘smooth and consistent’) One finger up = single file How to start a rotating paceline from single file (easiest for the 2nd rider to initiate) Don’t go to the front if you are having difficulties keeping up. In the middle is easiest: the front is not drafting, the back is dealing with varying speeds Keywords:  Smoothness and efficiency.   Week 6: The Bike Riding essentials: tube, tyre levers, pump, $10 and ICE-details Simple speedo is fun ($10 at Torpedo 7): distance, average, max speed etc Cleats (show, the advantage of pulling) Lights Cleaning materials available in bike-shops (brushes, soaps, etc) Tyre pressures – different volume tyres. How to change a tyre. Terminology:     Big gear= higher gear = changing up = harder to pedal Small gear= lower gear = changing down = easier to pedal Change gears before you need to, ease on pedal pressure and change one of the levers at one time  Keywords:  Maintenance, maintenance, maintenance! Week 7: Posture Advantages of a bike-fit (check prices, explain how it works with video, etc) Ride the bike as a jockey rides its horse Sit on your sit bones only, not on the soft tissue Arms are relaxed with elbows bent (shock absorbers) The pedal should be under the ball of your foot Focus on pulling through the bottom of the stroke and up (if you have cleats) Relax your hands and keep shoulders down, aim for a still body. (check seat height if rocking) Keywords:  Comfort and efficiency Week 8: Cornering Technique Looking where you want to go. Getting set up before the corner Weight on outside foot. Slow speed before higher speed practice. Exaggerate technique to start with. Keywords: “Flow over go” Week 9: Hill Climb Technique When to stand, when to sit. Hand positions. Relax the upper body. Riding your own pace. Positive mind games that can help Bunch positioning to maximise your chances of staying with the group. Keywords: Ride your own hill   Week 10: Nutrition Eat before you are hungry Drink before you are thirsty Have a nutrition strategy that you’ve tried and know works. Practice nutrition strategies on group rides and find what works for you. Keywords:  Tried and true Week 11: Bunch Surfing Knowing when to conserve and when to spend energy How to use cunning as well as fitness (sometimes instead of fitness) to negotiate a ride How to read the bunch Developing tactics Keywords:  Thinking, thinking, thinking.   Week 12: What’s next How to continue to grow your abilities? Different training methods Periodised Polarised Graduating Joining other groups (becoming a KGB Agent) Recap on what we’ve covered Keywords:  Go forward with confidence  

    • New Cycling Training Group
      • In the new year, we will start the next structured training group.  Following on from the success of the previous two courses run last year, in January 21 Adrian and Glynis will start the next group.  If you are returning to riding, want to regain lost fitness, or are a total "newbie"on the bike, this could be for you.  If you are aiming for the Kapiti Women's Tri, this is perfect timing to learn some essential road skills, practise with like-minded people and be guided by the experienced and super welcoming Glynis and Adrian.  See this article for info about the previous group, who have just graduated.   https://www.kapiticyclingclub.co.nz/index.php/articles/news/867-the-kapiti-corona-bunch-12-week-structured-training-group Cost is $55 for all 12 sessions and includes a 1-year membership to the Kapiti Cycling Club.  To find out more or to register your interest, please contact communications@kapiticyclingclub.co.nz  

    • Before Clipless, Carbon and Zwift
      • ...there were toe-clips, steel and riding in the rain!  Join us for a social event, a ride down memory lane! You're invited to see inside a local hidden gem, Trevor Rice's private cycling memorabilia collection. View the remarkable collection of bikes, kit, gear and photos of the Wellington Centre, Kiwi Commonwealth and Olympic Games cycling history and hear some of the stories. Members and their families are welcome, nibbles and soft-drinks will be provided, and you're welcome to bring your favourite tipple along. 7.30pm, Friday 13th November. Entry is by gold coin donation to Trevor for the upkeep of the private collection. Parking is available on the road. Please rsvp by commenting below, or clicking interested on Facebook

    • Club Kit 'Top-Up' Store
      • The club's team kit store is open now, with a limited range for summer (or to tuck under the Christmas tree for you or a loved one!).  This is to enable existing members to  'top-up' our kit and for our new members to purchase the basics - essentials such as jerseys, bibs and gloves.  The club doesn't generally carry stock of the kit, and we generally open the store once a year (usually around March), so make the most of this opportunity.  Here is the link to the club store: https://www.tineli.co.nz/order/jehfg/catalog Orders must be received by: 28/10/2020 12:00 am The order will be produced and shipped by: 18/12/2020 - just in time for Christmas!   Only current members can purchase the kit.   https://www.tineli.co.nz/order/jehfg/catalog

    • 2020 Annual General Meeting
      • The following is notice of the AGM to be held at the Paraparaumu Library meeting room on Thursday the 27th August at 7:30pm  The AGM will be followed by supper.   The purpose of the AGM is to:   Confirm minutes from last AGM To receive and consider the statement of accounts and any other reports To elect the officers of the Club and the ordinary Committee members Hear any other business Agenda: Roll call to establish voting strength Apologies Confirm the minutes from the last AGM  Treasurers report Presidents report  General Business Election of committee officers Nominations are called for the following positions:  President (nomination for Gary Clareburt Secretary (nomination for Glynis Te Maipi-Kemp) Treasurer (nomination for Gill Donald) Club Captain  Committee members usually around 4-5 general committee members (Nomination for Greg Cundy, Neil Harwood, Janice Hill and Dave Downer) Close of AGM Click HERE to see a description of the Roles and Responsibilities for the committee positions.  This document details a perfect world - which we don't ever operate in - so please don't be put off if you feel to don't tick absolutely every box.  The committee is very supportive and will help anyone who puts their hands up :) Please email any items you would like discussed to the president@kapiticyclingclub.co.nz   I just want to give a heads up that I am not standing for President this year.  I've got things going on at work - with a move to a new, challenging and exciting role.  With that comes a lot of extra study and work to give it my absolute best. So it's time to focus on that for a bit.  It'll be nice for someone else to have a go at the helm.  I'll still be around and will help in any way that I can.  And I will absolutely not stop being a part of the club and being passionate about Kapiti Cycling Club - it's the best little club there is.  So please if you would like to step up and help on the committee or as President, now is a really good time to step forward.   It can be hugely rewarding.   Nominations must be via email and will not be accepted on the night of the AGM unless there are no nominations for that position. Nominations will be accepted up until the Wednesday prior to the meeting and must be submitted to president@kapiticyclingclub.co.nz. If we have more nominations than available positions then a vote will be called at the AGM.    Hope to see a great turnout.   Regards   Adrian

    • Dave Downer
      • Hi Folks I know a lot of people have been shocked to hear of the bad luck Dave's been through just lately. Here's some details plus a way we can do something to help on the long rehab road he's got ahead. A few weeks ago, Dave was riding his mountain bike one evening - up in Taupo where he was staying at his family's bach. He'd been riding some trails on his own and had popped out on a small quiet road so had put in a bit of power and was travelling pretty quickly. Unfortunately, there was a chain across the road, which he didn't see, even with his good lights, and which he hit and came off, landing headfirst. Dave said he'd had crashes before and always done the usual; just take stock and get up - but this time he couldn't move. Even realizing this he remembers staying really calm and thinking to himself "Bugger - I've broken my neck". As if that wasn't enough to deal with, he was on his own and not in a place where a lot of people come in the evening - and it was dark and cold. All he could do was yell for help - and that's what he did. Apparently someone across the river eventually heard his calls and an hour and a half after coming off the police arrived to an immobile and hypothermic Dave.  After a couple of hospitals that didn't have the specialised facility to fully care for his injury, he was taken by ambulance to Auckland (as the weather was too bad for a helicopter). A scan showed that the disc between C3 and C4 was squashed flat and Dave was immediately operated on to remove the disc and put a plate in place between C3/4 to help reduce the swelling and allow some feeling to return, though this didn't happen quickly.   Fast forward to now and he's made really good progress. Feeling has returned to varying degrees to all Dave's limbs and he's in a rehab facility and working really hard. Although he's in for a long road to recovery, Dave's got the huge advantage of being in really good shape leading into this, plus, when talking to him his strong, positive attitude shines through. He's getting stuck into doing whatever he can to work through all that's come his way, and Tatia, Dave's wife, is heading backwards and forward to Auckland to be with him as much as possible (though she told us the new rehab ward rules are really strict about visiting hours and she's not been able to be with him as much as she could previously). So there you have it. Not great news but I'm sure everyone will join me in crossing fingers, sending good vibes and thoughts, and wishing Dave all the very best in his recovery. He's going to be in Auckland for quite a long time yet. We've had a think about how we can help and figure some petrol vouchers for Tatia and maybe some mags to pass the time for Dave will help in some small way.  If anyone wants to contribute (and if Dave has ever stopped to help you fix a flat or get you home when you are feeling knackered - you really do owe him - I know I do :), then you can pop a small contribution in the club account. Make the reference FOR DAVE and we'll add that to an amount the club will also donate.    Kapiti Cycling Club.   03-0732-0020082-00  We will accept donations until Sat the 8th August. We're all rooting for you Dave.

    • The Kapiti Corona Bunch, 12-week Structured Training Group.
      • Howdy all The Kapiti Good Bunch that we started way back in February - has been a fantastic success.  It's been a great group of people who've stretched and grown over the period - and they have been a joy to help and show the ropes to - we've really enjoyed seeing the enthusiasm and progress.   We had the slight interruption to our 12-week program with COVID-19 putting things on hold for a while - but we're up and running again - and we have four weeks to go until the KGB riders can graduate and become KGB agents :).  The lockdown has introduced a whole new bunch of people to riding - and let others rediscover the joys of cycling.   So with the success of the KGB's still bubbling away, we’re starting a new group aimed slightly wider - this August. A 12-week program aimed at those people who found or refound cycling during the coronavirus levels. Please share this amongst your friends and neighbours, and anyone that you know of that might be interested in growing their abilities with us. Here are the details...   Discovered or rediscovered cycling during coronavirus lockdown? One of the positive things to come out of this crazy year has been the huge rise in the number of people cycling.   Whether as a safer way to get to work, as a sanity release by getting out of the house for some fresh air and exercise, or just because people rediscovered that joy of exploring and the sheer fun of being a kid on a bike again - , people are riding. If you've had that spark and want to kindle it to a flame, taking you to new levels of fitness and fun, then read on... Does any of this sound like you? You've rediscovered the fun of being on a bike and have loved the fitness gain (once you got over the sore bum) You’ve got the basics but want to take it further You want to return to the level of fitness you’ve had in the past (and possibly then some) You think you’ll enjoy belonging to a group that will encourage, motivate, and grow with you? You’re keen to enjoy the confidence and big benefits of riding in a bunch. You don’t have a road bike but are interested in exploring what road riding can offer You want to save time by learning from experienced and qualified coaches. This is a 12-week stepped cycling program, aimed at growing your abilities and fitness. This is NOT a program for ‘guns’ or expert cyclists, nor will it put unrealistic expectations on anyone. When we ran this program previously we aimed it at people with road bikes who could ride between 30 and 50km comfortably and we had a hugely successful group.  This time, with the coronavirus changing all our lives and introducing lots of new and recycled cyclists, - we’re widening our reach and offering the program to two different streams of people. Two bunches in one... People with drop bar road bikes who can ride 30-50km. People with flat bar road bikes (hybrids) or mountain bikes set up for the road, who can ride for an hour and half - to two hours comfortably at a fitness pace and may like to progress to a drop-bar road bike eventually. (we  have nothing against those bikes - we absolutely love mountain biking - we are just aiming this development group at the road - but we don't want to exclude anyone that doesn't have a road bike just yet.  If you haven't experienced a drop bar road bike - they are the fastest - so that's where we're aiming) If we get plenty of people in both streams - we will split into 2 groups on the road.  During the 12 weeks you’ll learn, or be refreshed on such things as, what to wear, what essentials to bring on a ride, how to change a tyre, good cycle etiquette, eating and drinking ‘on the move’, and the best coffee places for that all-important post-ride chat. The rides will start at an easy level of both distance and speed, accommodating all in the group. Over time the distance covered will increase and we’ll learn good bunch-riding skills, while gradually improving fitness and confidence Once the program is complete riders should feel confident enough to move to one or more of the regular rides happening in the area, which continue all year round. What’s included: Entry to the 12 weeks of structured group sessions and rides. Weekly progressive skills drills lead by qualified Cycling NZ coaches. Weekly email updates about the upcoming route, with hints and tips included. Membership to Kapiti Cycling Club through to the end of 2020, with access to a full calendar of challenges, events and support that comes with that. Cost: $55 per person to cover the full 12-week program (incredibly good value at just over $4:50 a session).  This fee confers membership of the Kapiti Cycling Club.  The organisers, leaders, and coaches are all members of the Kapiti Cycling Club and give their time and effort entirely voluntarily.   When and Where: The first session will be Sunday 2 August 2020 The last session will be Sunday 18 October 2020 All 12 weeks will begin outside Farmers at the back of Coastlands, Paraparaumu at 8.10AM. Other regular groups also leave from this point so don’t be concerned if you see some flash gear rolling around; chances are they’re not with your group. What to bring: There are all sorts of opinions on ‘the essentials’ to bring on a ride. But if we pare that down to the necessities then you should have the following: A roadworthy bike of one of the varieties listed above A helmet A spare tube or two Everything else we can cover as we go. See below for basic details of each week's session Contact Glynis at glyntmk@hotmail.com to find out about joining the Kapiti Corona Bunch. How to Join: Joining is easy - simply do an online transfer to the Cycling Club Bank account 03-0732-0020082-00. Use your name and "KCB" in the reference. And contact Glynis (details above) to let her know you have done so. (if you are already a member of the club then you don't need to do this - just contact Glynis to let her know you want to join the group).   Program for the Kapiti Corona Bunch At the beginning of each ride, the ride leader will discuss for max 5 minutes the ‘theme of the week’ (see below). Each ride will build upon things covered previously as well as in distance and time (unless it is the hill-climbing or cornering weeks where we will go out and practice this stuff in the real world) We will start every session with 20 mins of coach lead - skills work, which will progress as people improve.   We will finish every ride with a bunch “debrief” at a local café.   Week 1: Welcome Introductions Collect email addresses Explain the route for today (this will happen each week) 1.5 hour ride the first week. Explain the plans for the 12 weeks We all stop when somebody needs/wants to stop (puncture, change clothes etc) Always communicate What kit should you have and do people have? (tube, tyre levers, pump) Pre-ride checks ABC and Q No problem if you miss a week: check with others about the theme you missed Email the coordinators about whatever Keywords.  “Hello, my name is…”   “On time is late”   Week 2: Bunch riding Signals (arm on back, gravel, point out potential hazards, slowing and stopping) At the head of the group, you’re the eyes of the bunch and should initiate calls that get relayed back. Shout ‘clear’ on crossings (if clear) and ‘car back’ when cars want to pass.  But everyone is responsible for themselves, make your own mind up about when it’s safe. Some activities you only do when you’re at the back: nose-blowing or drinking/eating (unless you have that fully under control) When you’re at the back: communicate in time when there is a split in the group: ‘Ease!’ Discussion on when to focus your attention. Communicate!  Lots of talking. Keywords: smooth and consistent.   Week 3: Clothing Gloves: padding, nose-wiping, sweaty hands are slippery No underwear: chafing cream Padded shorts (if not all are wearing them already) Close-fitting clothing is a lot more aerodynamic…  Less matches burnt. Comfort is key – try out different kit to find what works KCC kit is wonderful Keywords:  Comfort, and efficiency   Week 4:  Confidence Body language (taking the lane, signaling intentions, holding your line) Communicating: with other riders in your bunch and with car-drivers. Make sure other road-users always know where you’re going.   Acknowledging people positively. Knowing where to brake – especially in the wet. Staying out of the door zone Railway lines and painted lines – crossing at right angles. Keywords:  Positive and confident.   Week 5: Rotating A rotating group maximises efficiency and can travel way faster than an individual. Advantage of drafting Rotating techniques (depends on the wind, importance to ‘wait’ once you’re leading, make it ‘smooth and consistent’) One finger up = single file How to start a rotating paceline from single file (easiest for the 2nd rider to initiate) Don’t go to the front if you are having difficulties keeping up. In the middle is easiest: the front is not drafting, the back is dealing with varying speeds Keywords:  Smoothness and efficiency.   Week 6: The Bike Riding essentials: tube, tyre levers, pump, $10 and ICE-details Simple speedo is fun ($10 at Torpedo 7): distance, average, max speed etc Cleats (show, the advantage of pulling) Lights Cleaning materials available in bike-shops (brushes, soaps, etc) Tyre pressures – different volume tyres. How to change a tyre. Terminology:     Big gear= higher gear = changing up = harder to pedal Small gear= lower gear = changing down = easier to pedal Change gears before you need to, ease on pedal pressure and change one of the levers at one time  Keywords:  Maintenance, maintenance, maintenance!   Week 7: Posture Advantages of a bike-fit (check prices, explain how it works with video, etc) Ride the bike as a jockey rides its horse Sit on your sit bones only, not on the soft tissue Arms are relaxed with elbows bent (shock absorbers) The pedal should be under the ball of your foot Focus on pulling through the bottom of the stroke and up (if you have cleats) Relax your hands and keep shoulders down, aim for a still body. (check seat height if rocking) Keywords:  Comfort and efficiency   Week 8: Cornering Technique Looking where you want to go. Getting set up before the corner Weight on outside foot. Slow speed before higher speed practice. Exaggerate technique to start with. Keywords: “Flow over go”   Week 9: Hill Climb Technique When to stand, when to sit. Hand positions. Relax the upper body. Riding your own pace. Positive mind games that can help Bunch positioning to maximise your chances of staying with the group. Keywords: Ride your own hill   Week 10: Nutrition Eat before you are hungry Drink before you are thirsty Have a nutrition strategy that you’ve tried and know works. Practice nutrition strategies on group rides and find what works for you. Keywords:  Tried and true   Week 11: Bunch Surfing Knowing when to conserve and when to spend energy How to use cunning as well as fitness (sometimes instead of fitness) to negotiate a ride How to read the bunch Developing tactics Keywords:  Thinking, thinking, thinking.   Week 12: What’s next How to continue to grow your abilities? Different training methods Periodised Polarised Joining other groups Recap on what we’ve covered Keywords:  Go forward with confidence      

    • An update
      • Howdy folks. Just a quick update... The changes to level two - loosening the restrictions on group sizes to 100 means we can start things rolling again.  Wahoo! I spoke to Tony Levaggi this afternoon and he is keen to get the Yellow Jersey group running again.  So look for an update from him regarding a bunch on Sunday. Glynis and I will start the KGB group going again Sunday week (7th June).   So KGBers look for an email from Glynis coming up - that will give you all the details. Other than that, turn up at Coastlands on Sunday and catch up with some people you've likely not seen for a while! We will still need to do contact tracing of all riders.   An expedient way will be to take a photo of everyone before you set off and to take note of any riders who may join along the way (or take their photo).  So please be aware that this will be going on.  Smile :) In updates about upcoming events (obviously these will be subject to things at least remaining as they are currently with regards to Covid)  The Wellington Centre Champs have been cancelled this year - PNP will run it in 2021. 10-12 July Australasian Masters Champs ,Wairarapa 17-19 July Vantage Age Grade Road Nationals, Waipukurau Cycling NZ will be making a decision about the Nationals on 19 June which will affect the Masters Champs also. We will advise as soon as we know 25 July & 1 August Kapiti will be hosting the Winter Series. We will be running these as individual Time Trials on a new course in Te Horo.  We will run these two events - followed by a week off and then Masterton will be hosting the Hope Gibbons Team Time Trial.   So a nice few Time Trial events clustered together to reintroduce us all to running and taking part in events. 16 August Hope Gibbons Team Team Time Trial, Masterton 27 September the Trust House North Island Series will begin - and this year running as a graded series.  So this opens it up to a wider range of riders...  Gill is currently working on the accounts so we will organise an AGM coming up soonish.  I will let you know when we plan on doing that. Looking forward to catching up properly with everyone. Stay safe Ngā mihi | Regards Adrian. PS When I get some time I will create and promote the new group we will run post the KGB's graduating.   (don't worry KGBers - there is a plan for you for after the program has finished.

    • An update on things we are working on.
      • Howdy everyone I hope you are all well and looking forward to breaking out of your bubbles to some degree.  It'll certainly be nice.   This is a note to keep you all informed as to where we are at, and what we are working towards.  Before I get into that though I just want to say that we are all of us volunteers for the club, and all have had our lives changed with the upheaval that is happening now.  We are doing our best to do what is right - and we are trying to balance many factors.  So, thanks for your patience and kindness while we work our way through this.    And on that, here is what Cycling NZ are saying currently…  "The key message at this time is one of taking a considered and measured approach to the restart of your events and cycling activity.  The ability to meet the government guidelines is not the only consideration to take into account prior to resuming desired cycling activities. We share your desire to get back to racing, however we strongly encourage all clubs and organisers to thoroughly understand the guidelines and create their own detailed and robust plans before resuming." So where are we at? A week or so ago it looked like organised cycling club activities couldn't resume until Level 1. There was to be no out-of-region travel, and sport of the nature of bunch racing and training was not sanctioned.  And this was consistent with Cycling NZ guidelines. But the guidelines for Level 2 have changed somewhat over the week. I know it's hard with changing rules, and sometimes inconsistent application of them, but as I saw someone write the other day; "We are learning while we are sailing", which makes it impossible to have all the answers or get things always right. It's a complicated beast.   So - with the current guidelines, contact sports were allowed it seemed, at Level 2 (with a whole lot of rules applicable) and these were certainly the guidelines that Sport NZ was promoting in the last few days. So, you would think that if rugby and netball can recommence, then cycling in bunches could too.  But when the announcement came from the government, there was the new factor of the 10-person limit, which wasn't something that had been previously indicated.  We aren't exactly sure how that applies to us and what we are doing. We initially thought that the 10-person limit didn't apply to the participants in the sports, but only to the spectators, and would also mean no socialising after the game/ride/event, but this isn’t entirely clear as yet so we are awaiting more information about that.  So what are we doing? We're looking at holding the Winter Series as a series of probably three Time Trial events. We will hold this off for a time to allow for things to normalise somewhat. So, while we would usually hold the Winter Series in July/August, we’ll now look at moving it slightly to the second half of August. TT is an easier way to dip our toes into holding, and taking part in, events again, it’s much easier to control and can be done with plenty of social distancing. We will have to be as contactless as possible, will have to develop a risk assessment policy and have a contact tracing register for all participants and spectators. In exciting news, we are looking to hold this event on the new loop that has been made available by the expressway work in Te Horo https://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/3078254500 So yay!     I have a meeting with the Wellington Centre (with representatives from all the Wellington Clubs) on Thursday, so we’ll fit in with what the other clubs are doing - but in general, they like the idea of us holding the Winter Series as a bunch of TTs. The guidelines for Level 2 suggest now is not the time to be holding prizegiving's and the like, so we will hold off holding the AGM until later in the year. If the Nationals go ahead, they will be in July, and so we might look to hold the AGM/Prizegiving in August if it's possible by then. If it’s still not possible we’ll look at holding the AGM a different way, with video conferencing and the like, but we're hopeful we can get together by then. Gill has started the work to prepare the accounts, and Dave is working on the trophies. It did look for a minute like we could start club coordinated bunch riding on Sundays again which would see the resumption of the Yellow Jersey/Rouleurs and KGB groups. With the 10-person socialising rule however, it gets a bit complicated. As a club organising these rides, we would still need a contact tracing register, and going to cafe afterwards would be difficult for a club to have involvement with as the rules state no more than 10 in a group and all must be seated. This means no contact with others that might arrive late or in a different bunch. With the club as the organiser of the ride we feel that we would have to be responsible for this and that puts us in a position we don’t really want to be. In addition, we already get told we are riding five abreast when we aren't, so a group of 10 will likely be 20 in the public's eye. So, we are holding off starting the club organised groups up at this point until we have some clarity or the 10-person rule is removed (we will most likely still have to have a contact tracing register in place for these rides – but that’s all good). I’m sure you will all be keen to get together to ride in Level 2 and that’s totally cool. But for the reasons above, for now, organising them between yourselves, in small groups, and staying sensible like you all have been, is the way to go.  We’ll jump in as soon as we can. In all of this we are seeking clarity from Cycling NZ - who are in turn seeking clarity from the government and will update their policy as soon as they can. I’ll discuss all of the above with the Wellington Centre at our meeting on Thursday and if there is any more clarity from Cycling NZ by then, it’d be great if we could come up with a Wellington wide policy that all the clubs agree to. Of course, I’m not sure if that’s possible, but I’ll do my best to advocate it. The KGB program was unfortunately put on hold before we could finish it. Just to let you know, we are definitely planning on finishing the KGB program and for you all to “graduate” (will that make you all KGB agents?). And on the massively positive side…  We’ll look to start a new group similar in nature to the KGB and will offer it to those people who have discovered, or re-discovered, cycling during the lockdown. We’re thinking of offering two streams; to those with road bikes, and to those that don’t have them yet. As with the KGB’s, it’ll be all about growing abilities in a controlled yet accelerated way with us. We’re really looking forward to how that might play out and we may need lots of help delivering the program. Watch this space. I think that’s it for now. Good news and frustrating news I guess – but we’ll get there. Stay safe everyone Kia Kaha Adrian on behalf of the Committee. PS Glynis and I are keen to get riding outside.  We are doing our time on Zwift in our garage, and have had to resort to toilet paper on the bridge of our noses to stop our glasses slipping down... and as you can see - a touch of madness is creeping in...  Sad but true :)

    • Corvid-19 - what we can do.
      • Morning folks. This is not something we want to be doing or would even have contemplated just a week ago, but times are changing rapidly and we have to do what is right, not just for our members but also for the community at large. It's going to take a massive community effort in times ahead so and so this is us doing what we can to aid that. I'll start with the bottom line and then explain how we got there and the reasoning... We're going to cancel the remaining two Tuesday night rides on our calendar and won't be adding new events until we know how things play out with this virus. We will stop ALL organised club activities. This means our Sunday group rides as well as any workshops or meetings we might organise from time to time. And we are recommending that people don't group together and go for rides and certainly don't go to cafes. Hopefully, people will see that it's a no brainer in this environment - that we have to do this, but some may think it’s perhaps a bit over the top - so I'll explain what we've found out and how we arrived at the above. I'll also say this; if we've been over-cautious and it turns out that maybe we didn't need to do what we're doing, then it's a very easy price to pay. The price of being on the wrong side of caution if things get worse, however, is potentially very, very hefty. So cautious we will be, and with our community and country very much at the front of our mind. So, here are some of the factors that played into our decision (the committee had a teleconference last night to discuss and were all in total agreement). If you haven't heard - we've seen that the Age Group Road Nationals have been postponed at this stage until the 17-19th of July. They will make a decision on the 19th of June if this date is still good to go, and if it isn't, they will cancel the event PNP has postponed the Centre Champs. They said yesterday that if things improve they will try to hold them a couple of weeks before the Age Group Nationals (PNP have also cancelled the last of their summer series events. We don't have a directive from Cycling NZ yet regarding what clubs should do. But there are directives we've seen from both Cycling Australia and British Cycling (both of these countries are perhaps a little bit more advanced with the virus situation than we are, so it makes good sense to take a steer from them we feel) British Cycling has suspended all sanctioned cycling events, initially till April 30th, and their recommendation to clubs is that there be NO organised activity Australian Cycling has canceled all racing and asked clubs to suspend all organised club activity in the short term (which they will keep revising as things develop) In NZ we have had Sport NZ facilitating a session with major sports and they have developed an advisory that includes:- The postponement of programs, tournaments, workshops - including social leagues They have recommended that officials, players, and committees should conduct meetings online. In Spain and Italy, they have banned recreational cycling totally - so you can't even go out for a ride on your own, to clear your head. The reasoning there is that they don't want to overburden the health system if you have any problems. We aren't at that stage here yet and let's hope we don't get there. So, there you have it. Certainly not what we want to be doing.  We just want to be riding our bikes, but think it's a total no brainer to forego events, group rides, and cafes for a while, in the interests of the community and doing our bit to "flatten the curve" that's been much talked about lately and makes absolute sense. One thing we certainly can do is organize some virtual rides for those that have Zwift. I will get some of these scheduled and put them on the calendar as soon as I can. Perhaps a Tuesday night event and maybe a Sunday Hundy on Zwift. Stay safe everyone. Adrian and the committee.   Some references https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/covid19guidance?fbclid=IwAR0_LoSlR4Sm-A2Jj37N9cmZHK9jSuYwX4rtHSTBkH3NhxZC5guC1VNtkXw https://cycling.org.au/nat/cycling-australia-statement-regarding-coronavirus-racing-and-training-activities?fbclid=IwAR38eTsybaI-l-ZTJD6k3jp_ShaQEaz3zp2iWktD2GEoW-kDMpwE0KcThn8 https://www.cyclingnewzealand.nz/covid-19/ https://www.cyclingnewzealand.nz/news/vantage-age-group-road-championships-update/ Really informative article about flattening the curve and how isolation make that possible... https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/2020/world/corona-simulator/?fbclid=IwAR2FQZd-m1X_L7cZoR6GvaKfRHp1eu3eI59FxJbsSA_ckghypb9keVCST-A       

    • The Club Kit Store is open for a limited time. Don't miss out.
      • Howdy folks And the Kit shop is OPEN with 3 new items;  Club Socks Club Undershirt Club Cap Plus all the awesome items we've had before, and Tineli have kindly honoured last year's pricing NOTE -  Please place and pay for your order by: 11/03/2020 11:59 pm The order will be produced and shipped by: 8/05/2020 It's almost time to think about your winter requirements too, and if you haven't already bought a winter jersey, we can highly recommend these for keeping you snug (but not sweaty) through the months ahead.   It's great to see us out there wearing our Club kit. It really stands out, keeping us safer on the roads.     We don't open the kit shop very often - as we have to hit certain sales marks to make it viable.  Generally, it's once a year - so take that into account when making your choices and put your best foot forward :)    

    • 2020 Age Group Nationals Meeting
      • CNZ Age Group Road Nationals 2020 Are you planning or considering competing in the Age Group Nationals in 2020 – if so, you are invited to come along to a Kapiti CC meeting on Thursday 20th February at 7pm. The 2020 Age Group Championships will be held over the weekend 17-19th April in Waipukurau. The aim of the meeting is to: · Identify potential numbers competing · Events competing in (TT and / or RR) · Travel plan  · Accommodation  · Centre Champs · Apologies if unable to attend (we then know you are interested) We will establish an email group from this meeting (including those unable to attend) to keep everyone abreast of developments https://www.cyclingnewzealand.nz/events-and-results/national-events/vantage-age-group-road-national-championships/ Meeting Location: 79 Park Avenue  Waikanae  The house is down the long driveway to the RIGHT of the letterbox.  At the end of the driveway - it's the house on the left.

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