This is the new checkpoint map showing where the volunteers are

Checkpoint Setup times
Rest Stop 1 - 8:30AM	Checkpoint #6 - 9:50AM
Checkpoint #2 8:45 AM	Checkpoint #7- 10:00AM
Checkpoint #3 9:00 AM	Checkpoint #8- 10:15AM
Rest Stop 2 - 9:15AM	Checkpoint #9- 10:30AM
Checkpoint #5 - 9:30AM

If you have not participated in this event before and want to know more, read our 2005 Sebring Bike tour review.

Just like last year, check point operators will be given a packet by e-mail if possible, that includes signs, maps showing all checkpoints, and a description of where your checkpoint is and what to expect when you get there. If you don't want to print it all out, not to worry, paper copies will be available. Just let us know.

The route compared to last year, for those who remember, is now reversed (again). From the first rider to enter the area to last rider to exit, the tour may take about 6+ hours. You would not have to be at your post that long. Based on previous events, the time between first and last rider per checkpoint is about 2 hours and 15 minutes. The only checkpoint that has to be open for the duration because riders pass that point twice will be happily covered by John -KC4KLM.

If you will be available on September 3rd and can set up a check point station with 2 Meter ability please let John KC4KLM know as soon as possible as it takes a while to get all this planned. Call him at 678-0953 or send him and e-mail. It cannot be stressed enough on how important it is to have these checkpoints covered by Hams for the safety of the riders.

Tips for Volunteers

Being it's Summer, it will be hot. Unfortunately our back roads the riders will take are not covered by trees. Most locations the only shade available will be a grove. When the sun gets over head, grove shade will be useless. Here are some tips to make a checkpoint more endurable. -If you see an area with better shade near your checkpoint as per map, even if it is down the road a little bit you can move there. Just made sure you are visible or have signs, etc. that you are a tour safety checkpoint where riders can pull over and get help if needed. - Things you may want to bring: Off! bug spray -you never know. Hand wipes Folding chair Tarp and steaks for an overhang Inverter/Small generator to power an big fan Spray bottle to mist yourself down (Feels great) Personal Cooler Camera -Pictures for web site and sent to bike clubs -Definitely wear loose fitting comfortable clothing that breathes. -Once you know your designated checkpoint, if you feel like it, take a ride and check the area out to see what it's like. The additional (big) signage and umbrella are a great idea.

A Message from the event director- Linda Leeds "To all you wonderful radio operator volunteers ~ Bless you all for helping our event ... we couldn't do this event without you ... you keep everything under control. I'd like to ask your assistance in another way. You can be the first line of defense, so to speak, in helping avoid disaster. Please study the information below, and if you see any problems, please take action, or point out the situation to a rider's companions. This stuff can apply to you, too, sitting out there in the heat. Thank you all ~ Linda Leeds, Event Director REMEMBER TO DRINK BEFORE YOU FEEL THIRSTY! Heat Cramps ~ Rest in a cool place, drink sports drink, and stretch the cramped muscle. Heat Exhaustion ~ Hot and sweaty. Move the victim to a cool place, give the person sports drink, lay them down and elevate their legs, remove excess clothing, sponge with cool water and fan the person. If there’s no improvement within half an hour, call 911. HEAT STROKE ~ Clammy and dry. This is The Big One! This one can kill. CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY even if the victim seems to be improving; move the victim to a cool place, remove excess clothing, keep the head and shoulders slightly elevated, fan the victim and spray with water, place ice packs under the arms, by the groin and sides of the neck where the big veins are. Ice will help cool the blood."