Saying, “Yes!”
When most cycling clubs are pausing new memberships, or saying, “No” to new comers, the London Baroudeurs have decided to continue opening the club to new members. So, if you like riding your bike with friends, getting fitter, and going further, maybe now is the time to join.
Riding to a different beat
The last 2 years have been challenging for everyone. For the London Baroudeurs, it has meant adapting and trying different things to keep people motivated and feeling alive.
As a club that prides itself on quality group rides, it was hard to be reduced to riding in pairs – but, unlike other sports, at least we had this as an option. And, the silver lining was that we get to really talk to each other, one-to-one. What a difference this makes.
Now that Lockdown measures have eased, we wanted to continue pursuing a safe riding environment in the interest of everyone’s wellbeing. The methods were simple, but they have continued to have a lasting positive impact on our members. From meeting in a new area, away from other clubs; to organising alternative routes, far removed from the popular norm; throwing in track, gravel and adventure riding has become all the rage with us; to creating online group rides with the likes of Zwift; and even riding the other way as other clubs keeps each ride fresh.
It’s not easy, but the upside has been we are able to continue to ride as a team and attract fantastic people as new members.
Enter the Neos
More often than not, we have an average enquiry rate of 30+ a year. The selection criteria is simple:
- A 6am start
- Friday Chat Laps at conversational pace
- Group riding experience
- Skills and Drills
- 3 months selection period
- Evaluation
Most people find the 6am start a hurdle. We understand – the London Baroudeurs isn’t for everyone.
But, for the few that find this kind of setup appealing, they don’t often regret joining. It’s challenging to describe the sensation of riding with friends, forming a bond of trust and enjoying the expansion of adventures that quickly blossoms.
These are the Neo-Baroudeurs – people who take the plunge and brave the cold, the dark and the celebrations. We take our hats off to the Neo Baroudeurs. Chapeau, you’ve earned your place. You have earned your membership!
Chapeau, Neos
Congratulations to the Neo-Baroudeurs who have earned their full membership this year:
- Charlotte aka ‘Char’
- Ioannis aka ‘The Angry Spartan’
- Leo aka ‘The Flying Doctor’
- Loui aka ‘Boba Fett’
- Nenad aka ‘Bogi’
- Rob aka ‘The Rocket’
- Jamal aka ‘8 Pack’
- Michael aka ‘Hulk’
- Shaun C aka ‘Thanos’
The rise of the Neo-Baroudeurs
Here’s to the current cohort of Neos nearing their final selection:
- Jon M
- Alex H
- Sebastian J
- Shaun G
- Guido R
Rise and more power to you!
:: We are constantly discovering more ways to empower and support seasoned and new members alike. Please see here for further information on membership and our terms of reference ::
