Corner marking

D.
we run a corner marking system which has stood the test of
time, and is now almost universally used amongst the more organised Clubs.

G.
The Corner Marking System, although simple to follow, does take a bit of effort by all riders.
At the beginning of each ride we appoint both a Lead Rider and a Rear Rider / Tail end Charlie.
The lead rider wears a green arm band on their right arm so you can see it if you attempt to overtake
The rear rider wears a green arm band on their left arm so you can see it if you're stopped
Lead Rider:- The Lead rider will set the pace of the ride. Members are requested not to pass the Lead Rider, but if you do wish to ride ahead of them. Then you will be on your own!. Therefore if you are not sure of the route, stay with the group.
Rear Rider / Tail End Charlie: -The Rear Rider shall always travel behind the slowest rider. As you would presume this can sometimes be a little tedious or boring over long distances. For this reason the Rear riders will be changed regularly. Consequently it is imperative that you make yourself aware of who is the rear rider. If you are experiencing any problems or having bike trouble, indicate and pull over to the left (somewhere safe) and wave another rider down, the rear rider will then stop and we will sort the problem out.
Also, if you notice that your bike is playing up along the way, please inform the rear rider of the situation so that we can keep an eye on your progress.
Remember, take some responsibility for your own situation, don't be left on the side of the road.
NOTE: At no time whatsoever will the rear rider pass another rider, therefore you are requested not to stop at inappropriate times and as a result split the group up.
(E.g.: Toilet breaks/Refuels etc should be taken at designated stops only)
Corner Marshals:- (Second & Third Riders). When approaching a corner, junction, or other change in direction, the Lead Rider will indicate and with his left arm, "drop" the next two riders before and after the corner to MARK the change in direction, giving enough time for others to see the marker and follow the lead rider. To do this the rider following the Lead Rider should pull over giving enough distance prior to the turn and put their indicator on in the direction the ride is going, so the other riders know which direction to take. The third rider, should pull over just around the corner, preferably within view of the second rider and also put their indicator on to show the direction the ride is taking.
Both of these riders should then continue to indicate the change of direction until signalled by a horn to ride on by the Rear Rider. The reason behind this is simple, if someone breaks down, has an accident or gets lost, one member can go and tell the lead rider, the other can go back and find out what the problem is. This is especially vital in areas without mobile phone coverage.
Please don't under any circumstances leave a designated corner UNMARKED until instructed to move by the rear rider.
The GOLDEN Rule !!!!
If you come to an intersection and find no Corner markers - always proceed straight ahead, the ride did not change direction.
I don't like Cornermarking: (there always someone isn't there!) Cornermarking provides for riders who are not sure of the ride route and ensures the ride goes smoothly and that riders don't get lost. If we do get lost, at least we all get lost together. A minority of faster or experienced riders may not like cornermarking as they are required to stop, however it does allow these riders to work their way up through the pack and is often quite fun so give it a go. If you still don't like it, ride towards the middle or rear of the pack - Its that simple!