Just to add to Phil's post above for those that might wonder what is involved.
I volunteered as a driver at last night's NYERRL Road Race around Eskrick so I thought I'd pass on experience.
I'd never driven at an event before but it was all very straightforward. If you haven't got BC Membership it's a 5 min job to join online then give the organiser your membership number, vehicle and personal details so they get you on the BC Insurance. You get your fuel cost paid for.
Turn up in plenty of time and the organisers will equip your vehicle with a VHF radio and some magnetic signage, and that's it for prep. Grab a coffee and mingle with the riders until the start.
Last night there were 4 vehicles; 2 riding shotgun out front, 1 protecting the front of the peleton and 1 at the rear of the race. The aim of the vehicles is to protect the race from other roadusers, mainly by making the race very visible. But also the vehicles carry the Commissaires. So you may be alone or may have company in your vehicle. The Commissaire may instruct vehicles to slot in different places in the group if there's a breakaway group. You don't have to worry about stopping traffic etc as there are Traffic Management professionals on hand for that, although a little 'persuasion' for oncoming vehicles to slow down is sometimes called for.
Last night they reserved the best seat in the race for me!
I was in 'Lead 3', which meant I was driving right in front of the peleton and saw the whole race (in my rear view mirror!) from start to finish. You get running commentary on action over the radios from the Commissaire, who rides in the rear vehicle and get to see all the attacks and action at the front of the race.
I'd encourage everyone to get involved in helping out at events, just make an effort to help out at 1 event per year and it'll help massively. You get to learn about the sport and it really is very little hassle on the day and all the riders are very grateful for helping to make their event happen.
Well done to Rich and Co last night for putting on an extremely slick and professional event.
A.N.Other is still driving one of the cars for the vets race in the list above, so I still need one volunteer driver. Expenses will be paid. You get a great view of the race and an excuse to tuck in to what will doubtless be impressive refreshments at HQ.
