Yet Another Cycling Forum

General Category => Audax => Topic started by: Jethro on 27 June, 2016, 10:35:55 am

Title: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Jethro on 27 June, 2016, 10:35:55 am
This is something I have been thinking about for some time now.  Similar to Audax Club Bristol and Audax Club Hackney, is there a call for something in the West Midlands where we have in excess of 300 AUK members?

To begin with, I have arranged for an informal meeting on Tuesday 20th September at The Golden Lion pub on Ash Street, Bilston, Wolverhampton at 8pm where everyone is invited to discuss anything and see where it all leads to.

In the meantime, any discussions can begin here.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Rupert on 27 June, 2016, 02:16:33 pm
Like it :thumbsup:

But I do think that to call it Audax West Midlands is just to big an area.

Audax Club Hackney could have called their club Audax Club London.  Do you see what I mean?

how about Audax Club Birmingham or Audax Club Wolverhampton or even Black Country Audax?
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: MagnusOpus on 27 June, 2016, 02:59:38 pm
This sounds like an excellent plan, I've been looking to hook up with local Audax minded folk.

I second a preference for the name Black Country Audax, has a nice ring to it.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Gruby Mits on 27 June, 2016, 04:27:37 pm
Nice to have.  :thumbsup:

Black Country Audax sounds good, but Black Country is a small section...

I have no other/better suggestions but maybe someone could come up with something more witty/charming, have notice many smart people on here.

What would be the advantage of having a local club? Sorry for asking but I am quite new on the scene. A local club in a town I get = go riding together... on such a big area as WM? Would we organize some rides/more events or anything else?  :)

Thanks
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Audax Club Hackney on 27 June, 2016, 11:43:33 pm
AC-BC  :demon:
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Audax Club Hackney on 27 June, 2016, 11:45:18 pm
...for those about a rack
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Kim on 28 June, 2016, 01:03:20 am
Barakta's got the jersey for that (some marker pen may be required).
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Peter on 28 June, 2016, 01:20:15 am
I shouldn't worry too much about the size of the area.  Peak Audax stretches from at least Rochdale, across Manchester and down through the Peak District - and we haven't even got a jersey!

Good luck with it!
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: tornandfrayed on 28 June, 2016, 06:46:31 am
Audax Club Mercia has a nice ring about it.

My Anglo Saxon geography isn't brilliant but the capital was in Tamworth and it covers all the area without being too specific. A nice nod to the classic Mercian bikes as well.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: jamesld8 on 28 June, 2016, 07:03:12 am
What if you live on far flung borders, namely Herefordshire and actually just across into Wales ? Would eligibility for an Audax Club Mercia be accepted?
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: tornandfrayed on 28 June, 2016, 07:35:32 am
What if you live on far flung borders, namely Herefordshire and actually just across into Wales ? Would eligibility for an Audax Club Mercia be accepted?

I'm just an interested observer throwing a possible name into the ring so I would have no say in the membership. However as a member of ACB living in what I like to think of as 'outer' Bristol I wouldn't see a problem.  :)
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: jamesld8 on 28 June, 2016, 07:56:13 am
Yes recognise `Audax Club Mercia` is a suggested name but somehow sounds good and much more inclusive of `West Midlands` than Black Country Audax which is firmly identified with quite a limited and highly populated area.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Ningishzidda on 28 June, 2016, 08:25:49 am
The county of West Midlands, created in 1974, was formed from parts of Staffordshire, Worcestershire and Warwickshire.
So there you have it. Shropshire is not in. Nor is Herefordshire, Cheshire or Gloucestershire.

And also, Wrekin is not in, although we’re often round it.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: nomeansno on 28 June, 2016, 09:22:55 am
As a Staffordshire Rider I'd be interested in this. I agree Black Country Audax has a good ring to it.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Peter on 28 June, 2016, 10:04:33 am
Just an aside:  one of the most prominent clubs in Audax (though it is a "normal" cycling club) is VC 167, which takes its name from the A167, the old Great North Road.  Its heartland is the glorious county of Durham but it has members from Newcastle down to Norfolk and over to Harrogate, Manchester and Ulverston.  Call it something with a nice ring to it and keep membership open seems to be the key!

Peter
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: MagnusOpus on 28 June, 2016, 10:13:13 am
Audax Club Mercia sounds good too, and does actually cover my location.

Even though the Black Country is very specific, and many of us won't really be there, I like that it would give a focal point, and AC-BC would make for splendid jersey potential that would also be a nod to the Black Country's musical heritage (okay mebbe it's a nod to some Aussies and a Geordie, but you know what I mean).

Whatever gets decided, I'm likely to be in
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Ningishzidda on 28 June, 2016, 11:22:08 am
What about,

‘Audax  Black Country McBlack Countryface’?
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: JayP on 28 June, 2016, 11:47:53 am
Wolverhampton is 'the capital of' the old southern Staff's Hundred of Seisdon.
http://www.genuki.org.uk/big/eng/STS/Hundreds/Seisdon.

I rather liked Jethro's collective name for his perms 'Wondering Wolves'. Wondering Wolves Audax Club

Terrific!
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Ningishzidda on 28 June, 2016, 11:50:38 am
Wolverhampton is 'the capital of' the old southern Staff's Hundred of Seisdon.
http://www.genuki.org.uk/big/eng/STS/Hundreds/Seisdon.

I rather liked Jethro's collective name for his perms 'Wondering Wolves'. Wondering Wolves Audax Club

Terrific!

Audax Wondering Wulfric.

That's Spott on. Not only did he go round the Wrekin, he also went for a Burton.

Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: MagnusOpus on 28 June, 2016, 11:51:56 am
Wolverhampton is 'the capital of' the old southern Staff's Hundred of Seisdon.
http://www.genuki.org.uk/big/eng/STS/Hundreds/Seisdon.

I rather liked Jethro's collective name for his perms 'Wondering Wolves'. Wondering Wolves Audax Club

Terrific!

Good name, but I suspect might not be popular with anyone from West Bromwich
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Jethro on 28 June, 2016, 01:08:43 pm
Some really good suggestions coming in although I do like the AC/BC (even if it is one of my favourite bands)  :demon:

I do hope you can all attend on 20th September.

Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Ningishzidda on 28 June, 2016, 01:29:10 pm
I see on Streetview, the pub has an offer of 'Buy 5 pints, get one free.'

Is that still on?
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Jethro on 28 June, 2016, 02:50:06 pm
I dont think it is Jim, but I will buy you a pint if you turn up.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Redlight on 28 June, 2016, 07:28:01 pm
Shouldn't all of these regions have had a vote before deciding to secede from AUK?  :)
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Audax Club Hackney on 28 June, 2016, 08:13:15 pm
We started off as a group of four AUKs who happened to live in Hackney. We met on one of Dave Hudsons' rides in 2012. None of us are Londoners (Gadget is from Yorkshire, Jonah is from Dorset, Sharpie is from Wiltshire and Brommers is from Hell). The aim was to share journey/accom fees to-and-from local events.  Although not a CC in the original sense, we do all the usual things that a CC does and have a f*****g good laugh along the way.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: vistaed on 28 June, 2016, 08:16:30 pm
Wolverhampton is 'the capital of' the old southern Staff's Hundred of Seisdon.
http://www.genuki.org.uk/big/eng/STS/Hundreds/Seisdon.

I rather liked Jethro's collective name for his perms 'Wondering Wolves'. Wondering Wolves Audax Club

Terrific!

Good name, but I suspect might not be popular with anyone from West Bromwich

And Audax Club Black Country not so popular with those of us from Birmingham. Although I'm not actually from Birmingham, I just live there. But I do support a West Midlands conurbation audax club (whatever the name) as long as we can have a jersey, must have a jersey. For the record, I'm fond of Audax Club Mercia.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: teethgrinder on 28 June, 2016, 08:39:06 pm
I think this sort of thing makes a lot of sense.
We have Portsmouth, Bristol and Hackney having get togethers and planning things ahead. I think it's what's needed. Then the groups can plan together for things like LEL and PBP. I think that this is already happening with Bristol, Portsmouth and Hackney.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Bikeabilityman on 28 June, 2016, 10:06:11 pm
Steve: maybe audaxers of NBRC, A5 Rangers and Team MK should come together as a new club in the vein hope of climbing the club results table. Team MK has about 550 members, but I've given up selling the delights of audaxing to them.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Veloman on 28 June, 2016, 10:25:00 pm
Audax Black Country fraught with definition issues IMO as Black Country is a relatively small area. Nice flag to base a jersey though:

[https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=black+country+flag&prmd=isnv&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiYsP6808vNAhUFFz4KHaPSCJYQ_AUIBygB&biw=768&bih=928&dpr=2[/url]

Audax Club Mercia covers a far greater area and is associated with a central area in England.

I spoke to Jethro last year about this and suggest something like Audax Central.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Audax Club Hackney on 29 June, 2016, 07:07:01 am
As said up-thread, I don't think you need to worry about being geographically democratic with your club name.  This is rather like designing a club before it's even started.  A bit like a boy-band?  (East-17 for example).

We have members who are from (and still live in some cases) from Italy, Australia, Germany, Lithuania, Spain, Romania, Turkey and so on.  These guys joined after the club was formed but if they hadn't we'd have needed to call our club Audax Europe?  We have a lot of members from North England and the Midlands who still travel down for our social events and club rides, none of whom seem to put off by joining a long distance cycle club which started in London (or even Hackney for that matter).  The most common membership area is still London but there are only a handful of riders who actually live in Hackney.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Jethro on 29 June, 2016, 10:25:39 am
I have already spoken to a couple of jersey manufacturers and should have some designs ready for the meeting.

a friend of mine has also suggested Audax Birmingham and Audax Wolves?
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Gruby Mits on 29 June, 2016, 11:49:23 am
I think there is already a "Black Country Cycling Club"/group of cyclist, not sure what official status they have etc... and of course not an AUDAX specific... I have not issue with this but others might?

What about "Angels of Mercia" certainly a good pun on long hard rides...?

Some more silly ones...

"Middle Earth Audax" (Tolkien a spent much time in our area and was fond of it http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-29787528) Or any other related references.
“Spitfire Audax Club” (Famous plane made in the Midlands - to appeal to plain spotters amongst us) But just a nice word
“The Colliers Audax Club” (if we really want to go back to the Black Country hint of heritage of mining, and we had mines elsewhere in WM, but not sure if other areas of the country call themselves that?)

Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 29 June, 2016, 11:51:48 am
When I lived in the Midlands for 5 years, I'd have been happy with a variation on the theme of Mercia. The other suggestions would give the nitpickers something more to latch onto.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Ian H on 29 June, 2016, 12:09:12 pm
"Nit-pickers' Audax Randonnée Club"
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: rabbit on 29 June, 2016, 12:14:33 pm
What if you live on far flung borders, namely Herefordshire and actually just across into Wales ? Would eligibility for an Audax Club Mercia be accepted?

Can we not have our own? Cambrian Borderland Audax (also known as C(ant) B(e) A(rsed))  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Kim on 29 June, 2016, 12:22:13 pm
"Audax Mordor"  You know it makes sense.  Eye of Sauron on the jersey...
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Ningishzidda on 29 June, 2016, 12:25:05 pm
What if you live on far flung borders, namely Herefordshire and actually just across into Wales ? Would eligibility for an Audax Club Mercia be accepted?

Can we not have our own? Cambrian Borderland Audax (also known as C(ant) B(e) A(rsed))  :thumbsup:

Audax Marchers.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Ningishzidda on 29 June, 2016, 12:52:16 pm
Randonneurs Lion d'Or.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: jamesld8 on 29 June, 2016, 01:00:13 pm
What if you live on far flung borders, namely Herefordshire and actually just across into Wales ? Would eligibility for an Audax Club Mercia be accepted?

Can we not have our own? Cambrian Borderland Audax (also known as C(ant) B(e) A(rsed))  :thumbsup:

need a referendum to sort it all out and cause yet further disarray  :demon:
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: teethgrinder on 29 June, 2016, 01:13:09 pm
Steve: maybe audaxers of NBRC, A5 Rangers and Team MK should come together as a new club in the vein hope of climbing the club results table. Team MK has about 550 members, but I've given up selling the delights of audaxing to them.

I was thinking the same thing myself but can't commit to it properly myself. It can't hurt to put something on Facebook etc and try to meet up at a pub. Ricki Goode from Northampton might be interested. Ricki was a well known AUK in the 1990s but packed it in during the 2001 LEL. But now he's getting keen and making a comeback.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Bikeabilityman on 29 June, 2016, 02:28:00 pm
2001? I wasn't even aware the MK CTC (Cycling UK!) existed back then, let alone Audax.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: vistaed on 29 June, 2016, 05:30:23 pm
Middle Earth Audax...love it! but I prefer the 'Angles of Mercia' suggestion. Mercia has a flag, and according to Wikipedia comes from the old English meaning 'border people'.  What's more Mercia covers a suitably large chunk of central England and could indeed be used for some angles based perms. There could even be a Mercia round event. The western flanks already has a ride, the Offa's Dyke 600.

Or continuing on the Tolkien theme, Tolkien studied old-English (Anglo-Saxon English) and used many of the Mercian kings names for the names for the people of Rohan. Indeed the people of Rohan are also known as the 'Mark' which is said to be inspired by Merica. And what's more, the Kings of Mercia happen to be from the Angles royal family, a Germanic tribe that gave it's name to East Anglia but which ruled over Mercia.

So combining all that we have 'Angles of Rohan'. Whilst slightly obscure makes for a good story behind a club name and the members could be know as the 'Mark'. And no reason why a jersey couldn't incorporate both the Merica flag and a horse as a nod to the horse people of Rohan. And all this old English/Anglo-Saxon history wrapped up in Tolkien mythology provides for many an interesting route name.

Got to love Wikipedia
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: JohnL on 29 June, 2016, 06:20:03 pm
I'd be interested in a West Mids club.

I like the idea of the Tolkien theme, we could sort out some Tolkien based rides, the three towers are South Brum as is Sarehole (?) mill which is supposed to be inspiration for the shire and the Prancing Pony is supposed to be based on a pub in the Cotswolds...

John
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: flashpeddler on 29 June, 2016, 07:15:39 pm
Wish Lincolnshire had a club, I'd be in like a audaxer into a cake shop sale!!
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: jamesld8 on 29 June, 2016, 07:59:55 pm
How`s about `Riders of The Shire Audax` ? and I think Mr Undulates (John Hamilton beloved of his hilly rides :)  has plenty of alliterations to Tolkien certainly on The Elenydd ?

I`ve always fondly though of The Misty Mountains as being some of the Welsh Hills around here and area around Clun being Hobbit land (maybe) for Tolkien`s books
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: marlan on 29 June, 2016, 11:06:45 pm
Wish Lincolnshire had a club, I'd be in like a audaxer into a cake shop sale!!

There has been talk of a Lincolnshire club, went for a pint with a local organiser where it was discussed.

Maybe it's something us Lincoln Audaxers should have a look at.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Phil W on 29 June, 2016, 11:43:08 pm
Middle Earth Audax
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: canny colin on 30 June, 2016, 12:37:00 am
 Howay man you have to aim high  -- " The Audax Kings of mercia " . Or  low   The  Audaxing Vagabonds . (  Slogan - my other home is a bus shelter )
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Ningishzidda on 30 June, 2016, 08:03:44 am
Some Tolkien landmarks.

The Shire – The area around Icknield Street, north of Redditch.
Weathertop – Weatheroak Hill windmill.
Bree – Drakes Cross.
Prancing Pony – The Packhorse, Drakes Cross.
Rivendell – Sarehole Mill.
Moria Gate – Where the river Cole culverts under the GWR line at Tyseley.
Mines of Moria – Armoury Road, Small Heath.
Mirkwood – Shard End
Esgaroth – Babbs Mill Lake.
Erebor – Coleshill Church, ( which stands on the top of a single hill, can be seen from miles away, has dragon’s head gargoyles and the churchyard has a small gate to the neighbouring pasture field )

Now get Tolkien’s map of Middle Earth and scale it so Moria Gate is where I say and Erebor is where I say, and you’ll find Barad Dur, The Dark Tower, Eye of Sauron lies at St Mary’s, Temple Balsall, church of the Knights Templar.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: MagnusOpus on 30 June, 2016, 01:29:33 pm

Now get Tolkien’s map of Middle Earth and scale it so Moria Gate is where I say and Erebor is where I say, and you’ll find Barad Dur, The Dark Tower, Eye of Sauron lies at St Mary’s, Temple Balsall, church of the Knights Templar.

I've poked around that place a few times (as I always do anywhere with Temple in the name...never know where you might come across the Grail!), but didn't know that connection, very interesting.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Ningishzidda on 30 June, 2016, 02:42:08 pm
If you now do the same for Isengard, it’ll be where Scribers Lane fords the river Cole. Or could it be Balti 2000 on Priory Rd? Or could it be Christ Church, School Rd? Or could it be the bus shelter on Robin Hood Lane where J.R.R and his chums slept when the rode their bikes five times round the outer circle?
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Ningishzidda on 30 June, 2016, 06:35:42 pm
Essential kit for membership of new club.

(http://i1085.photobucket.com/albums/j433/Lighthorse2/IMG_20160630_182815_zpswuibpkw0.jpg) (http://s1085.photobucket.com/user/Lighthorse2/media/IMG_20160630_182815_zpswuibpkw0.jpg.html)
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Ningishzidda on 30 June, 2016, 06:53:46 pm
If you now do the same for Isengard, it’ll be where Scribers Lane fords the river Cole. Or could it be Balti 2000 on Priory Rd? Or could it be Christ Church, School Rd? Or could it be the bus shelter on Robin Hood Lane where J.R.R and his chums slept when the rode their bikes five times round the outer circle?

Its closer to Swanshurst Park.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: red_riviera on 30 June, 2016, 06:54:33 pm
"Audax Mordor"  You know it makes sense.  Eye of Sauron on the jersey...

(https://i.imgflip.com/16p4tv.jpg)
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: jamesld8 on 30 June, 2016, 07:01:09 pm
"Audax Mordor"  You know it makes sense.  Eye of Sauron on the jersey...

(https://i.imgflip.com/16p4tv.jpg)

brilliant, love it  :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Ningishzidda on 30 June, 2016, 07:05:16 pm
"Audax Mordor"  You know it makes sense.  Eye of Sauron on the jersey...

(https://i.imgflip.com/16p4tv.jpg)

Can't beat that.  :(
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: rabbit on 30 June, 2016, 10:45:29 pm
"Audax Mordor"  You know it makes sense.  Eye of Sauron on the jersey...

(https://i.imgflip.com/16p4tv.jpg)

Genius :D
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Veloman on 01 July, 2016, 08:34:01 am
I have already spoken to a couple of jersey manufacturers and should have some designs ready for the meeting.

a friend of mine has also suggested Audax Birmingham and Audax Wolves?

And Birmingham and Wolves are specific areas, unlike the Middle Earth or Central that suggest a general feeling for where it is based.  (I quite like the Middle Erath suggestion!)

The Black Country Flag has indeed been used already for a jersey and I have seen folk cycling in them (only 3/4 zip) bit with no writing on jersey.  I believe a couple of chaps decided to form their own niche club rather like our esteemed Dave CC.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Ningishzidda on 01 July, 2016, 03:15:00 pm
Bilston Independent League of Bicycle Orienteers.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Jethro on 03 July, 2016, 10:34:53 am
Some very good suggestions for the club name up thread, and after speaking to someone in Audax Club Bristol, I do feel that their set-up is excellent for the following reasons -


With the above in mind, I really dont think that naming a new club Audax Central or Audax Middle Earth or Audax Spitfire (and other names suggested above) can ever be regarded as having a membership that is specific to a particular area and I further believe that having a good social aspect (as Audax Club Bristol clearly do) is the right way to go dont you?
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: jamesld8 on 03 July, 2016, 11:05:33 am
Regrettably then I would not be able to join such a club, postcode LD8, and I wouldn`t be able make regular week meetings.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Veloman on 03 July, 2016, 09:14:21 pm
AC Bristol and AC Hackney work because they have loads of Audax folk in those areas. I doubt there are all that many in Wolves and Brum. I note that AC Mid-Essex (ACME) has gone for a geographic name and still manage to meet on a regular basis at a location near the gravitational centre of the movement. So, IMO a good social aspect is not predicated on a name but results due to the membership and willingness to participate.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Jethro on 04 July, 2016, 11:23:43 am
I am informed that there are between 300-400 AUK members in the West Midlands.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: mattc on 04 July, 2016, 12:19:04 pm
The thing about Bristol/Hackney is the large physical density of riders.* I don't know the Black Country, so I cant comment on how different they are/aren't (though I'm pretty sure "West Midlands" is bigger than the Bristol Postcode area!).

That doesn't mean such a thing cannot work; just that Brizzle and 'Ackney started at an advantage.

(This sort of thing is all down to chance - drop 4000 people onto the country at random, and some postcodes will get higher densities than others. )




*this is not aimed at NeilV. Or Bairdy, or ... etc etc ...    :-*
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Veloman on 04 July, 2016, 08:50:46 pm
I am informed that there are between 300-400 AUK members in the West Midlands.

And if that is based on a similar geographical coverage of Midlands Today or Central News, then a very large area indeed!
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Ningishzidda on 05 July, 2016, 09:19:02 am
If you take notice of the BBC, the ‘West Midlands’ includes West Midlands, Warwickshire, Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Staffordshire, Shropshire and The Wrekin.
Leicestershire, Derbyshire, Northamptonshire, Rutland and Nottinghamshire are the East Midlands.
The West Midlands County includes Wolverhampton, Walsall, Sandwell and Dudley, Stourbridge, Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, Solihull, Meriden and Coventry.
The area Jethro is indicating is Wolverhampton, Walsall, Sandwell and Dudley; ie The Black Country.

IMO, the new club should be ‘Audax Black Country’ or ABC.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: JohnL on 09 September, 2016, 08:42:35 pm
Is this meet still on?

John
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: jamesld8 on 09 September, 2016, 09:08:46 pm
I am informed that there are between 300-400 AUK members in the West Midlands.

And if that is based on a similar geographical coverage of Midlands Today or Central News, then a very large area indeed!

Fortunately where I live can get either BBC Midlands or BBC Wales so can choose a Midlands or Welsh alliance, currently own an Audax Cymru top  ;D
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Pedal Castro on 10 September, 2016, 07:33:51 am
Steve: maybe audaxers of NBRC, A5 Rangers and Team MK should come together as a new club in the vein hope of climbing the club results table. Team MK has about 550 members, but I've given up selling the delights of audaxing to them.

I was thinking the same thing myself but can't commit to it properly myself. It can't hurt to put something on Facebook etc and try to meet up at a pub. Ricki Goode from Northampton might be interested. Ricki was a well known AUK in the 1990s but packed it in during the 2001 LEL. But now he's getting keen and making a comeback.

There's a few of us in East Northants that would be interested in this initiative too I'm sure.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Bikeabilityman on 12 September, 2016, 03:18:51 pm
Steve: maybe audaxers of NBRC, A5 Rangers and Team MK should come together as a new club in the vein hope of climbing the club results table. Team MK has about 550 members, but I've given up selling the delights of audaxing to them.

I was thinking the same thing myself but can't commit to it properly myself. It can't hurt to put something on Facebook etc and try to meet up at a pub. Ricki Goode from Northampton might be interested. Ricki was a well known AUK in the 1990s but packed it in during the 2001 LEL. But now he's getting keen and making a comeback.

There's a few of us in East Northants that would be interested in this initiative too I'm sure.
I don't do Facebook, but would be interested in meeting fellow local audaxers at a pub to discuss this.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: JohnL on 23 September, 2016, 01:45:13 pm
Did this happen in the end? Anything to report?

John
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Jethro on 23 September, 2016, 02:48:06 pm
Sorry, but I have been really busy lately.

Sadly though, the meeting did not go ahead and I really do not have enough spare time at the moment.

However, if anyone else would like to arrange something then please feel free to step up.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Pedal Castro on 23 September, 2016, 08:57:32 pm
Steve: maybe audaxers of NBRC, A5 Rangers and Team MK should come together as a new club in the vein hope of climbing the club results table. Team MK has about 550 members, but I've given up selling the delights of audaxing to them.

I was thinking the same thing myself but can't commit to it properly myself. It can't hurt to put something on Facebook etc and try to meet up at a pub. Ricki Goode from Northampton might be interested. Ricki was a well known AUK in the 1990s but packed it in during the 2001 LEL. But now he's getting keen and making a comeback.

There's a few of us in East Northants that would be interested in this initiative too I'm sure.
I don't do Facebook, but would be interested in meeting fellow local audaxers at a pub to discuss this.

I have name, Riders of the Shire.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 06 October, 2018, 03:14:04 pm
BUMP...

anyone interested to restart this conversation?
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: JohnL on 07 October, 2018, 06:53:07 am
I was thinking about this recently. Could I suggest a more central meeting place and leave discussion of the name until after we’ve actually met... it might assist in getting things moving!

Somewhere in central brum perhaps?
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 07 October, 2018, 06:56:01 am
I was thinking about this recently. Could I suggest a more central meeting place and leave discussion of the name until after we’ve actually met... it might assist in getting things moving!

Somewhere in central brum perhaps?

works for me, I am based in Solihull

How about Sat Oct. 27, afternoon...
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: JohnL on 07 October, 2018, 07:10:14 am
Potentially good for me, I probably couldn’t be too early but 3 onwards should be ok.

I think where it went wrong last time was planning too far ahead so everyone had forgotten!

Any views on location?
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 07 October, 2018, 07:17:06 am
anywhere walking distance from Moor street/New street should work for most.

The Wellington any good?

http://www.thewellingtonrealale.co.uk/
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: JohnL on 07 October, 2018, 07:44:34 am
The Welly would work. Not sure how busy it is on a Saturday afternoon, but we could always nip through to the Joint Stock if it’s rammed.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 07 October, 2018, 07:53:20 am
The Welly would work. Not sure how busy it is on a Saturday afternoon, but we could always nip through to the Joint Stock if it’s rammed.

Funny enough the Joint Stock was my first thought... either would work. Football fixtures seem unremarkable, so might be a good date!

https://www.thesportsman.com/football/fixtures/27-10-2018
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 07 October, 2018, 09:48:10 am
I have PMed those who contributed to this thread in the past and were "seemigly local"... let's see if we can make this happen
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Jethro on 07 October, 2018, 10:09:49 am
Nice to see this thread again after so long.  Suggest that you set a date, time and location and then see who is interested. 
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 07 October, 2018, 11:52:33 am
Nice to see this thread again after so long.  Suggest that you set a date, time and location and then see who is interested.

I did... October 27th... 3PM, a pub in central Birmingham
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: vistaed on 07 October, 2018, 11:56:09 am
In theory I should be able to make that time and location but let me double check and I'll let you know.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 07 October, 2018, 12:07:38 pm
Great... I'm happy to go ahead as long as there are at least 3 of us  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Blade on 07 October, 2018, 12:12:29 pm
Would have been keen to join you, but have already committed  myself for something else that afternoon.  :(
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 07 October, 2018, 12:17:24 pm
Would have been keen to join you, but have already committed  myself for something else that afternoon.  :(

Cancel... this is once in a lifetime  ;D

OK, so far

Me
JohnL
Vistaed (maybe)
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Jethro on 07 October, 2018, 01:09:23 pm
Would liked to have been there, but in Darlington for the Peculiar Old 200 that day.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: eddum on 07 October, 2018, 08:37:15 pm
I foolishly started on page 1 and thought I'd missed the meeting in September.... 2016... yeah well.
I'm off running somewhere in mid wales the 27th weekend but may be observing from afar.

...what would be the benefits of such a thing ?... 
...i'm not very good at having to travel to do exercise when I can just roll out of my own front door so club rides might only occasionally appeal
...having a like minded bunch to identify at audaxes in general maybe ? but not sure how much of a regular you'd need to be to get to know
people / anyone !
...but I do like seeing & chatting with AC Hackney types... aspirationally hipster

(oh and AC/BC maybe not)

AC
WM
could be styled nicely in a 2 x 2 matrix.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Blade on 07 October, 2018, 10:10:23 pm
Would have been keen to join you, but have already committed  myself for something else that afternoon.  :(

Cancel... this is once in a lifetime  ;D

OK, so far

Me
JohnL
Vistaed (maybe)
As that date is my birthday, we have about thirty people coming for a party. I suspect that if I'm not there, presents will NOT be forthcoming.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 08 October, 2018, 06:27:24 am
I foolishly started on page 1 and thought I'd missed the meeting in September.... 2016... yeah well.
I'm off running somewhere in mid wales the 27th weekend but may be observing from afar.

...what would be the benefits of such a thing ?... 
...i'm not very good at having to travel to do exercise when I can just roll out of my own front door so club rides might only occasionally appeal
...having a like minded bunch to identify at audaxes in general maybe ? but not sure how much of a regular you'd need to be to get to know
people / anyone !
...but I do like seeing & chatting with AC Hackney types... aspirationally hipster

(oh and AC/BC maybe not)

AC
WM
could be styled nicely in a 2 x 2 matrix.

You can see it many ways, including racking up points for the club competition... however, in my view it's about organising events as a club and helping out at other events... basically what can the club do for other fellow randonneurs
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: JohnL on 08 October, 2018, 07:51:21 am
Sharing transport to events is another bonus.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: BobScarle on 08 October, 2018, 11:12:05 am
I should be able to make it.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Philip Whiteman on 08 October, 2018, 12:11:16 pm
Will send my apologies as I'm at a wedding.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 08 October, 2018, 12:11:57 pm
OK, so

Me
JohnL
BobScarle
Vistaed (maybe)
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Philip Whiteman on 08 October, 2018, 12:15:35 pm
I'll advertise this YACF thread when distributing my Beyond The Dyke debrief to entrants.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 08 October, 2018, 06:19:22 pm
West Midlands where we have in excess of 300 AUK members?

How did you find this out?

BB
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 08 October, 2018, 06:32:44 pm
West Midlands where we have in excess of 300 AUK members?

How did you find this out?

BB

Do you want to join the meeting on the 27th?
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Fraserblade on 08 October, 2018, 06:37:25 pm
I would be interested in a Birmingham based Audax group/club. I will need to check plans for 27th

Sent from my SM-G920F using Tapatalk

Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 09 October, 2018, 12:37:08 pm
OK, so

Me
JohnL
BobScarle
Vistaed (maybe)

Would be nice to hear back from Vistaed...  ::-)
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: MagnusOpus on 12 October, 2018, 09:12:45 am
Hi,

Just had this drawn to my attention, I've not been hanging arounf here recently, but I'd like to put my name down for this

Cheers

Mike
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 12 October, 2018, 03:12:30 pm
Hi,

Just had this drawn to my attention, I've not been hanging arounf here recently, but I'd like to put my name down for this

Cheers

Mike

For a meeting on the 27th?
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Jack_P on 14 October, 2018, 03:15:33 pm
Steve: maybe audaxers of NBRC, A5 Rangers and Team MK should come together as a new club in the vein hope of climbing the club results table. Team MK has about 550 members, but I've given up selling the delights of audaxing to them.

I was thinking the same thing myself but can't commit to it properly myself. It can't hurt to put something on Facebook etc and try to meet up at a pub. Ricki Goode from Northampton might be interested. Ricki was a well known AUK in the 1990s but packed it in during the 2001 LEL. But now he's getting keen and making a comeback.

There's a few of us in East Northants that would be interested in this initiative too I'm sure.
I don't do Facebook, but would be interested in meeting fellow local audaxers at a pub to discuss this.

I have name, Riders of the Shire.

Build it see who comes, perfect in PBP year, and hey   ;D another excuse for a beer.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 16 October, 2018, 08:23:37 am
"Qui la cera si squaglia e la processione non avanza!"

It's a way of saying from Naples, I love it... it literally translates as ""the candle wax is melting and the procession is not moving"  which describes perfectly well what happens on this thread.

Personally, I think there is no real traction for this idea and even worse, there are no ideas about what this should be about... it's a case of "if you do all the work, I might even join" and I don't think anyone wants to do all the work.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: JohnL on 16 October, 2018, 10:48:49 am
See what happens. I’m moderately hopeful. I have a few ideas but don’t want to distract to much at the mo. I don’t think the thread is necessarily the place to plan.

Once we’ve had a sit down and a few beers, it’ll get going....
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 16 October, 2018, 12:39:53 pm
See what happens. I’m moderately hopeful. I have a few ideas but don’t want to distract to much at the mo. I don’t think the thread is necessarily the place to plan.

Once we’ve had a sit down and a few beers, it’ll get going....

I don't think it's working John. Where there's a will things happen, with or without the need to meet in person. Here the majority can't even be bothered to check their calendar, let alone drag their bums to Birmingham.

I don't think it's meant to happen...
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Jaded on 16 October, 2018, 03:51:05 pm
See what happens. I’m moderately hopeful. I have a few ideas but don’t want to distract to much at the mo. I don’t think the thread is necessarily the place to plan.

Once we’ve had a sit down and a few beers, it’ll get going....

I don't think it's working John. Where there's a will things happen, with or without the need to meet in person. Here the majority can't even be bothered to check their calendar, let alone drag their bums to Birmingham.

I don't think it's meant to happen...

Well, that's me out.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Jethro on 17 October, 2018, 03:34:25 pm
PM sent.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: vistaed on 21 October, 2018, 11:36:16 pm
I won't bore anyone with the details but my families half-term plans have changed for the fourth or fifth time since I said I should be able to make the proposed meet-up. However, it's now looking far more likely than it was earlier today that I can indeed commit to meeting up. I see some frustration up thread. Is anyone still planning on meeting?
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 22 October, 2018, 06:23:43 am
We can meet. 3-4 of us could make the date.

We just need another hands up...
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: JohnL on 22 October, 2018, 06:50:47 am
There was a little interest over on Facebook as well. I’ll bump that post (if I can) at some point.

I’ll be there regardless.... let’s give this a go!

John
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 22 October, 2018, 10:03:27 am
Right, so we have

Me
JohnL
BobScarle
Vistaed

Saturday 27th 3 PM... shall we go for the Old Joint Stock?
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: vistaed on 22 October, 2018, 12:19:37 pm
Right, so we have

Me
JohnL
BobScarle
Vistaed

Saturday 27th 3 PM... shall we go for the Old Joint Stock?

As much as I like the Wellington, the Old Joint Stock is better suited to talking. So let's meet there. I'm going to put it in my diary and really hope that another curve ball doesn't swing by.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: eddum on 23 October, 2018, 11:03:16 am
We'll expect minutes.... and photos... and beer reviews.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 23 October, 2018, 12:32:01 pm
We'll expect minutes.... and photos... and beer reviews.

Maybe the photos...  ;D

This doesn't have to be the day when it all started... for that a project is needed. It's good to get to know each other and see where it might go, for as long as we all agree that it might just as well go nowhere.

Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: hellymedic on 23 October, 2018, 01:16:47 pm
'Nowhere to nowhere via South Mimms and Scotch Corner'...
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Ian H on 23 October, 2018, 03:24:08 pm
'Nowhere to nowhere via South Mimms and Scotch Corner'...

That brings back memories.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: rob on 23 October, 2018, 05:01:29 pm
'Nowhere to nowhere via South Mimms and Scotch Corner'...

That brings back memories.

Indeed.  Although I didn't ride, but was feeding people at Fishlake.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: JohnL on 23 October, 2018, 08:30:05 pm
I’ve posted on the Facebooks page so we may have some more...
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 25 October, 2018, 06:38:25 am
How do we recognise each other?

I will be the one holding a shiny 25 inch steel bar...

I don't mean to use it  ;D , thing is I need a longer seat pin for my Brompton and I can pick one up at Evans Cycles on my way there

I could even wear a cycling cap... but will I be allowed in the pub wearing one?
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: JohnL on 25 October, 2018, 06:52:21 am
I’m planning on ticking the Audax stereotypes. I’ll be sporting a beard and my bright red LEL t-shirt.


Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 25 October, 2018, 07:04:06 am
I’m planning on ticking the Audax stereotypes. I’ll be sporting a beard and my bright red LEL t-shirt.

STP sandals?
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 25 October, 2018, 08:54:38 am
I have put a comment on my Strava BRUM 200 page... we could have an extra person showing up, 3 or 150... no idea

https://www.strava.com/clubs/472362
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: JohnL on 25 October, 2018, 10:35:39 am
I’m planning on ticking the Audax stereotypes. I’ll be sporting a beard and my bright red LEL t-shirt.

STP sandals?
Alas no, but to make up for it I’ll be muttering about mudguards...
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Philip Whiteman on 25 October, 2018, 12:32:48 pm
As I won't be present, I cannot complain about any final decisions but here are some points that I would probably raise.  If you wish to consider the following points, it is entirely up to yourselves?

What is the strategic purpose of the group?

1. An informal cycling collective of local audaxers of like minded individuals
2. Incrementalist growth
3. A formalised club that encourages wider participation of cyclists to adopt audaxing.
4. A formalised club limited to existing audax riders.

Activity

1. Does it exist simply for Audaxers to ride together at events?
2. Does it support existing audaxes within the region?
3. Does it organise and deliver Audax Midland events?
4. Does it organise/promote activities that are additional to audaxes, for example, club runs, 12/24h time trials, TCR.
5. Social evenings? 

Constitutional

1.  Is it constituted formally?
2.  Does it have a formal membership if a club?
3.  Does it charge a membership fee?
4.  Club/rider insurance.

Promotional

1. Webpage presence
2. Club kit
3. Branding
4. Advertising audax events and activity.

Knowledge transfer

1. Speak to AC Bristol or equivalent on 'warts and all' experiences.

And the old chestnut

1. Who does what and making it a reality!
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Tull924 on 25 October, 2018, 12:37:07 pm
I could even wear a cycling cap... but will I be allowed in the pub wearing one?

At your own peril

"Rule #22 // Cycling caps are for cycling.
Cycling caps can be worn under helmets, but never when not riding, no matter how hip you think you look. This will render one a douche, and should result in public berating or beating...." http://www.velominati.com/the-rules/
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: hellymedic on 25 October, 2018, 12:56:34 pm
I’m planning on ticking the Audax stereotypes. I’ll be sporting a beard and my bright red LEL t-shirt.

STP sandals?

Wouldn't you get cold toes?

Isn't STP standard temperature & pressure - 0C and 760mmHg?
SPD might be another matter...
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: Kim on 25 October, 2018, 12:59:59 pm
STP is also Shielded Twisted Pair.  I dare say that you could weave yourself a pair of sandals out of DMX cable off-cuts during the run of a really boring show.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 25 October, 2018, 01:08:31 pm
As I won't be present, I cannot complain about any final decisions but here are some points that I would probably raise.  If you wish to consider the following points, it is entirely up to yourselves?

What is the strategic purpose of the group?

1. An informal cycling collective of local audaxers of like minded individuals
2. Incrementalist growth
3. A formalised club that encourages wider participation of cyclists to adopt audaxing.
4. A formalised club limited to existing audax riders.

Activity

1. Does it exist simply for Audaxers to ride together at events?
2. Does it support existing audaxes within the region?
3. Does it organise and deliver Audax Midland events?
4. Does it organise/promote activities that are additional to audaxes, for example, club runs, 12/24h time trials, TCR.
5. Social evenings? 

Constitutional

1.  Is it constituted formally?
2.  Does it have a formal membership if a club?
3.  Does it charge a membership fee?
4.  Club/rider insurance.

Promotional

1. Webpage presence
2. Club kit
3. Branding
4. Advertising audax events and activity.

Knowledge transfer

1. Speak to AC Bristol or equivalent on 'warts and all' experiences.

And the old chestnut

1. Who does what and making it a reality!

I think the second point is the most important to me.
Frankly, I can do without the politics and the idealism, but I can't do without a meaningful reason to exist. There is more demand than there is supply of events in the West Midlands and that should be self explanatory.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: JohnL on 25 October, 2018, 01:31:53 pm
As I won't be present, I cannot complain about any final decisions but here are some points that I would probably raise.  If you wish to consider the following points, it is entirely up to yourselves?

What is the strategic purpose of the group?

1. An informal cycling collective of local audaxers of like minded individuals
2. Incrementalist growth
3. A formalised club that encourages wider participation of cyclists to adopt audaxing.
4. A formalised club limited to existing audax riders.

Activity

1. Does it exist simply for Audaxers to ride together at events?
2. Does it support existing audaxes within the region?
3. Does it organise and deliver Audax Midland events?
4. Does it organise/promote activities that are additional to audaxes, for example, club runs, 12/24h time trials, TCR.
5. Social evenings? 

Constitutional

1.  Is it constituted formally?
2.  Does it have a formal membership if a club?
3.  Does it charge a membership fee?
4.  Club/rider insurance.

Promotional

1. Webpage presence
2. Club kit
3. Branding
4. Advertising audax events and activity.

Knowledge transfer

1. Speak to AC Bristol or equivalent on 'warts and all' experiences.

And the old chestnut

1. Who does what and making it a reality!

I think the second point is the most important to me.
Frankly, I can do without the politics and the idealism, but I can't do without a meaningful reason to exist. There is more demand than there is supply of events in the West Midlands and that should be self explanatory.

Personal opinion at the mo is to initially keep it very informal. I think it’s ACH which just say, be a member of AUK. Put the club down as your club in AUK. You’re a member.

If we start doing club runs then we’ll need to start looking at insurance, constitutions and other formal stuff.

It would be great to support local events and run our own as well.

For comms, I’d suggest a Facebook page is probably the easiest/ cheapest way of doing it at first. Maybe one public for advertising events and enquiries and a closed one for members to arrange sharing lifts/ hotels etc.

Just some initial thoughts.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: JohnL on 25 October, 2018, 01:34:18 pm
I could even wear a cycling cap... but will I be allowed in the pub wearing one?

At your own peril

"Rule #22 // Cycling caps are for cycling.
Cycling caps can be worn under helmets, but never when not riding, no matter how hip you think you look. This will render one a douche, and should result in public berating or beating...." http://www.velominati.com/the-rules/

There’ll be none of this velominati nonsense. That is one definite rule!
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: vistaed on 25 October, 2018, 04:36:21 pm
As I won't be present, I cannot complain about any final decisions but here are some points that I would probably raise.  If you wish to consider the following points, it is entirely up to yourselves?

What is the strategic purpose of the group?

1. An informal cycling collective of local audaxers of like minded individuals
2. Incrementalist growth
3. A formalised club that encourages wider participation of cyclists to adopt audaxing.
4. A formalised club limited to existing audax riders.

Activity

1. Does it exist simply for Audaxers to ride together at events?
2. Does it support existing audaxes within the region?
3. Does it organise and deliver Audax Midland events?
4. Does it organise/promote activities that are additional to audaxes, for example, club runs, 12/24h time trials, TCR.
5. Social evenings? 

Constitutional

1.  Is it constituted formally?
2.  Does it have a formal membership if a club?
3.  Does it charge a membership fee?
4.  Club/rider insurance.

Promotional

1. Webpage presence
2. Club kit
3. Branding
4. Advertising audax events and activity.

Knowledge transfer

1. Speak to AC Bristol or equivalent on 'warts and all' experiences.

And the old chestnut

1. Who does what and making it a reality!

I think the second point is the most important to me.
Frankly, I can do without the politics and the idealism, but I can't do without a meaningful reason to exist. There is more demand than there is supply of events in the West Midlands and that should be self explanatory.

Personal opinion at the mo is to initially keep it very informal. I think it’s ACH which just say, be a member of AUK. Put the club down as your club in AUK. You’re a member.

If we start doing club runs then we’ll need to start looking at insurance, constitutions and other formal stuff.

It would be great to support local events and run our own as well.

For comms, I’d suggest a Facebook page is probably the easiest/ cheapest way of doing it at first. Maybe one public for advertising events and enquiries and a closed one for members to arrange sharing lifts/ hotels etc.

Just some initial thoughts.

My printer is totally naff, but would someone able to print some copies of this list as it could promt some useful points for discussion.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 26 October, 2018, 08:02:18 am
no access to a printer today... I think we can broadly remember what we want to talk about
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: BobScarle on 26 October, 2018, 12:36:10 pm
I'll bring half a dozen copies with me.
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: JohnL on 27 October, 2018, 03:06:37 pm
We’re in the corner at the front on opposite side of the door...
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: whosatthewheel on 27 October, 2018, 07:53:46 pm
The founding fathers of West Midlands Randonneurs

(https://whosatthewheel.files.wordpress.com/2018/10/received_281006779202697.jpeg)
Title: Re: new club - Audax West Midlands
Post by: JohnL on 27 October, 2018, 08:02:44 pm
We haz a Facebook page!

I’m struggling to put a link in, but if you search ‘West Midlands Randonneurs’ you should find it.

I’ve not run a public page before so bear with me!! I don’t know if you’ll need approving or anything but if so I’ll try and do it as quick as I can!! I’ll be looking to get a few more admins set up as soon as possible.