One thing that I've done in the past that
seems to work well, is to offer a reduced entry fee to an experienced rider who
I know is planning to set a moderate to slow pace and is willing to take new
people along. I introduce them at the ride meeting and announce that
anyone who would like to tag along to meet 'somewhere special' in the morning
before the start. A special (bright red?) shirt, jacket or some type of
marking also helps - anyone that slows down can will recognize them and join in
as they go along.
It seems that some years there has been a
need and not others.
Another idea is that the experienced
mentor-type riders wear a ribbon or armband (maybe mgmt could hand out at ride
mtg) so the inexperienced person would know who they could get advice
from or tag along with. Although very few riders are not willing to give
advice, not everyone likes company or someone chatting with them along
the trail.
