One Central Park hosts British Cycling 'Go-Ride' Conference 2011
One Central Park hosted the Manchester leg of the the annual British Cycling 'Go-Ride!' Conference tour on Sunday 6 March with 120 delegates focused on developing the next generation of cyclists. Following keynote speeches, there were sessions on awards for young cyclists, coaching, competition and volunteering as well as Q&A sessions and practical demonstrations.
British Cycling is the National Governing Body for cycling in Great Britain whose aim is to inspire participation in cycling as a sport, recreation and sustainable transport through achieving worldwide success. British Cycling manages all elite aspects of the sport including events and performances at GB level and governs the development of cycle sport in England. It also represents Great Britain at UCI, the World Governing Body for Cycling, which oversees the sport at an international level.
British Cycling's Coaching, Education and Development Director John Mills said: "Go-Ride clubs are at the heart of everything we do and I'm always impressed by how people are willing to use so much of their spare time for the benefit of cycling.That is why events such as the Go-Ride Conferences are so valuable to us as we are able to recognise individuals' achievements, as well as pass on valuable advice and practical information.
"So far, volunteers have been extremely engaged in the workshops and the feedback has been very positive so we are obviously delighted.
"Experienced volunteers have been happy that they have developed existing skills, while concurrently, we have had over 50 young people begin the Cycling Award for Young Volunteers which ensures there will be willing individuals to take up volunteer roles in the future.
"Volunteering can be challenging, but it is the hard work and dedication of individuals that allows grass roots sport to exist and we can't over emphasise how thankful we are to have such an efficient and effective volunteer workforce."
So far, nearly 400 volunteers have attended this year's Go-Ride Conferences, which have been split into four carefully designed sections with specific workshops for Club Welfare Officers, Volunteer Coordinators, Young Volunteers, Coaches and Event Organisers.
While the Conferences are heavily geared towards practical advice and information, they also provide clubs and their volunteers with an invaluable opportunity to quiz and question British Cycling staff, both ones who work in Head Office and those who work in the relevant regions.
For more information click here or contact the Go-Ride team on 0161 274 2070 or go-ride@britishcycling.org.uk.
