Maybe the past couple days 'thread' of conversation about ride management, will
have an effect on what has become it seems; the norm........ riders are
quick to complain,and pick apart a ride; but few will offer positive
feedback, thank yous or constructuve criticism. ( ie.- Ideas
how could be better, or offers to "help".) In general, let
one rider have 'an unhappy' experience and you can bet 'the whole world',
or whoever, is in earshot will hear about it; but the ones who have 'a good
time, or just a decent ride', you seldom hear a thing from them, in
feedback forms, personally, or publically. And, yes, some complaints are
justified.
I have
been involved in rides in most every aspect from P/R, go-fer,
trail marking, maintainance, to management, and rider. And know
just how much work goes into all the planning. And also, know that even the best
laid plans can 'fall apart' at sometimes the last minute - Muphy's Law. And
have seen more than one ride manager - refuse to ever manage a ride again,
because of all the "armchair quarterbacking", and complaints.Have also, seen a
couple of good rides never happen again, due to managers deciding that wasn't
worth the headaches, of trying to please everyone. What a shame, for all
concerned. Ride managers do not go out of there way to make riders,/ crews lives
miserable. We try to arrrange for all standard amenities -safe, well
marked trails, adequate and competent help, accessable water, safe parking.( and
prayers for good weather.) Plans sometimes, just seem to fall apart; and we as
management try to adjust situation(s) as can, to keep the ride running as
smoothly as possible.
Liked the suggestion that anyone who
complains, well... too much complaining, have to manage / work a
ride.Would certainly serve as a rude awakening to at least
some.
Have to say I enjoyed 'post' about the
Cave Bears, and Riders Oath.( still lol ) Maybe more Ride Managers should
consider adding similiar info to ride
packets, just changing some of the names, and 'particuliars'.
Am reminds me of what M
Mackay-Smith said - that endurance by defintion - is to perservere.-
continue in spite of difficulty.
Just for fun.......
Requirements to be Ride
Manager ( applicants please eml me
)
More time, than money or
sense
Access to trails/ base camp/ vet
checks that are already laid out, maintained, free use, easy
access, with great footing and
water easily available.
Unlimited supply of friends and
energy - your friends soon get as 'burnt out"as you do/will; and
have to survive on mininmal /
or no sleep
Desirable to have ability to
control weather.
Guts, determination, and ability
to solve everyones problems, and accomadate wishes, requests, and whimsey
( at last minute )
Either a great sense of humor or
hasn't a clue and doesn't care attitude
A HIDE LIKE ARMOR OR
TEFLON and a really short memory.....so they
will do it again the next year.
Haven't managed one
for years, and probably won't.
Stephanie
