I rode an audax this year where all the entrants, with one exception, rode together for the whole route until the last few miles when it got a bit hilly and there was a bit of 'spreadage' but even then everyone finished within a few minutes of one another.
A Potter-for-Tea was my introduction into the world of Audax events and despite being a novice both at Audax and group riding it was great to be considered by group and not being spat out of the back by the first roundabout. As an inclusive event it was a very positive experience. I did arrive at the final control a little after everyone else but each and every rider took a moment to acknowledge my achievement and made sure that I got my fair share of cake (most important).
While my second event was very much a solo affair with very strong winds to battle the experience was nonetheless positive. Riders I had met at the first event made a point of speaking and gave me advice about the route and points of caution. Got in just on the time limit, very tired, again I was not excluded from the conversation at the recovery table (soup, tea and cake).
I left both events feeling that if cycling clubs in general adopted a more inclusive philosophy to new and returning riders, then cycling at club level would flourish. No one likes joining a club run to be taken at a steady pace (15mph) to be dropped because someone has a point to prove and no one else will let the show off, show off.
