Information

Location & Event Timings

  • Location

    Aboyne Community Centre, Bridgeview Road, Aboyne, Aberdeenshire AB34 5JN

  • Start times

    • First wave for the 110 Mile route will depart at 0800hrs and last wave at 08:25 (dependant on final numbers)
    • First wave for the 100 KM route will depart at 0900hrs and last wave at 09:30 (dependant on final numbers)

     

    We will set riders off in waves of 50, 5 minutes apart. Detailed information of start times will be emailed to you a few days before the event.

Registration Part 1- Online

  • Introduction

    Registration (entry) and payment is online via Eventbrite only. No new registrations are allowed on event day.  On event day you must go to the registration area with your printed PDF ticket and you must show photo ID (passport, driving licence, British Cycling race licence card).

  • How to register and pay

    Through the event ticketing system Eventbrite only.

    Major credit and debit cards accepted.

    Request invoice

     To request an invoice for workplace teams click here:

    Register

  • Age rules

    Minimum age 18 to ride independently.

    Riders aged 16 and 17 may also take part subject to parental consent. This consent form will be emailed to you approximately two weeks before the event.

  • Refunds

    We do not issue refunds but if you contact us we can arrange to swap your place if you have a replacement rider.

    We do not accept swaps or replacements in the last 14 days before the event.

  • Creating a team

    You can create a team when you first register through Eventbrite. Alternatively you can log back into your Eventbrite account later to create a team. Once you have created a team you can invite others to join.

     

    NOTE: If you create a team remember to join that team yourself!

     

    There is no limit to the size of your team. The sportive ride times will include your team name and you will be able to see your individual and combined times.

  • Transferring my registration to another person

    Please contact us if you want to arrange to swap your place if you have a replacement rider. We do not accept swaps or replacements in the last 14 days before the event.

  • Deferring my registration to next year

    We do not accept deferrals.

  • Registration cut-off date

    Midnight on Monday 16 May 2016

  • How to know if your registration was successful

    You will receive a confirmation email from Eventbrite confirming your online registration. You must bring the attached PDF ticket to registration on event day along with photo ID (driving licence, passport, British Cycling race licence card).

  • Check or amend your registration details

    Log into your Eventbrite account and edit your details whenever you like up to the registration cut-off date. The only detail you cannot change is the name of the participant.

  • Not receiving any emails?

    We’re sorry you aren’t receiving our emails. We’ll make sure this is corrected as soon as possible. Please check your spam folders and if our emails aren’t there then please contact us and we’ll resend any information you may have missed.

     

    Please check your spam or junk folders!

Registration Part 2 – Event Day

  • Documents you must bring

    • PDF ticket – sent in your confirmation email
    • Photo ID – we will accept a British Cycling membership/race licence, your passport, or your driving licence
    • Parental consent form (for riders under 18)
  • How to register yourself on event day

    1. Arrive at registration at the time emailed to you a few days before the event
    2. Hand over your printed PDF ticket and show photo ID to registration staff
    3. Receive your ride number and timing chip
    4. Fix ride number and timing chip to your bicycle
  • When to arrive at the registration area

    There are different registration times for each route.  We will send you a ‘Final Information’ email before the event with these times.

Pricing & Charity

  • Cost per person

    Standard costs

    100 KM:  £35 + booking fee (up until midnight  16 May 2016)

    110 Mile:  £37 + booking fee (up until midnight 16 May 2016)

     

    What is the booking fee for? The booking fee is set by Eventbrite (the online booking system) and is clearly presented before you buy. It includes credit card processing and ticketing services fees.

  • What the cost includes

    • A KOM Sportive branded mug filled with tea or coffee at the finish
    • A fine selections of cakes at the end of the ride
    • Great feed and water stations along the route
    • Electronic timing
    • Mechanical support
    • Professional medical support and first aid
    • Safety vehicles
    • Well-marked beautiful routes
    • 20% VAT
  • What the registration fee is spent on

    Our aim is to provide you with only the best services, safety cover and event experience. We very much hope you find it good value and that you will want to come back every year! We always welcome your feedback on this.

     

    Here are some of the things the fee covers:

     

    Insurance, first-aid and paramedic cover, multiple food stations, licensing and stakeholder liaison, support vehicles with qualified mechanics, route marking and signage, professional event staff, venue hire, vehicle hire, car parking costs, sound system hire, timing system cost, administration, event photography, post-event clean-up and 20% VAT.

  • Refunds

    We do not issue refunds but if you contact us we can arrange to swap your place if you have a replacement rider.

    We do not accept swaps or replacements in the last 14 days before the event.

  • Raise funds for charity

    We welcome all charities and fundraising efforts.

    If you work for a charity and would like to discuss how we can help you raise funds or include your organisation as an official charity partner please get in contact.

Timing System

  • How the start line works

    You will be assembled in waves and receive a safety brief in the start area. The start for your wave will be announced by countdown. As you leave, your timing chip will record your start time only as you ride over the mat.

  • How each rider is timed

    The event is timed electronically. A small chip given to you during registration at the event should be attached to your front left fork. Your start time and finish time are recorded and your overall ride time is then calculated. Times will be posted on our website and social media sites shortly after the event.

  • How to fit your timing chip

    Fit the timing chip to the left-hand fork of your bike (as you are sat on the bike) with the zip ties provided. Make sure it is properly secured. Remember to return the chip at the finish!

Rules of the Road

  • Open roads & Highway Code

    All roads are open to normal traffic, so ride with care and show courtesy to other road users. Please allow other traffic to pass. You must follow the rules for cycling in the Highway Code at all times.

  • Helping each other – general etiquette

    • If you see another cyclist take a fall, fixing a puncture or generally in trouble it’s always nice to stop and ask if they need help.
    • Please try not to judge other cyclists on their bikes, clothing, fitness or riding style – everyone has to start somewhere. Be supportive.
    • Use call passing – let others know that you are passing and acknowledge them.
    • Point/shout out hazards on the roads such as potholes.
  • Helping others in difficulty

    If you come across a rider with a mechanical or medical problem please stop and assist them to the best of your ability. If you need further help, wait for the support vehicle or call the emergency number on the reverse of your rider number. If the medical incident is serious call 999 immediately and THEN contact the event organisers.

  • What to do if you have a medical emergency

    If you feel unwell at any point or you injure yourself, stop and tell your fellow riders your symptoms. Ask them to help if necessary. If you need further assistance, wait for the support vehicle or call the emergency number on the reverse of your rider number.

     

    If the medical incident is serious call 999 immediately and THEN contact the event organisers. IF YOU RETIRE FROM THE EVENT YOU MUST TELL A MARSHALL or CALL the emergency number on the reverse of your rider number.

  • What to do if you have a mechanical issue

    Try to fix your bike yourself. If you need extra assistance ask your fellow riders to help – many of them will be very experienced at roadside repairs. If you need further help wait for the support vehicle or call the emergency number on the reverse of your rider number.

     

    If your bike is not repairable you will be offered a lift back to event base in the support vehicle. IF YOU RETIRE FROM THE EVENT YOU MUST TELL A MARSHALL or CALL the emergency number on the reverse of your rider number.

     

  • Route marking

    The route will be marked with hi-viz road signs and arrows and a team of marshals in hi-viz clothing. Please familiarise yourself with the route and pay attention to your location at all times in case of emergency.

     

    If you have a GPS device you may want to download TCX. or GPX. route files from our home page.

  • No headphones

    Please do not use headphones to listen to MP3 players, Ipods, phones or similar. They are a major distraction to your concentration and reduce your ability to ride safely in a peleton of other cyclists.

  • Time out / late return

    16:00: Time out at Gairnsheil Bridge – Any 110 mile riders arriving after this time will be re-directed to complete the ride on the shorter 100km route.

     

    16:30: All riders on all routes arriving at Gairnsheil after this time will be timed out and given a lift back to event base.

     

    Minimum average speeds required

    110 Mile

    Must maintain an average speed of 11.5 mph/18.7kph  – which equates to 5:15 minutes per mile or 3:15 minutes per km.

     

    100 KM route

    Must maintain an average speed 7.5mph/12kph – which equates to 8:00 minutes per mile or 5 minutes per km

  • Marshals on route

    Our marshals on route will be wearing hi-viz clothing. Please ensure you follow their instructions. PLEASE NOTE: They cannot legally stop other traffic at junctions to allow you an uninterrupted ride. You must give way in the normal fashion.

  • Marshal requests are final

    We reserve the right to ask you to stop at any point if we consider your health and safety, or the health and safety of others, to be at risk. The marshals will offer you and your bike a lift in the support vehicle. Please cooperate – they wouldn’t ask you to stop unless there was due reason.

Equipment & Clothing

  • Bike checks before you go

    1. Brakes working correctly with sufficient pad remaining (think of long descents!)
    2. Tyres are inflated to correct pressure
    3. Front and rear quick release skewers are tight
    4. Handlebars, stem, brake levers, headset and seat post are correctly adjusted and bolts secured to the correct torque
    5. Saddle is tight and at the correct height and position
    6. Chain and drivetrain are lubricated
    7. Wheels are not rubbing on the brakes after installation
    8. Computer speed, power and cadence sensors, bottle cages and pumps are all fitted correctly
  • After the ride

    • Full change of clothes and outdoor footwear
    • Towel
    • Additional warm clothes (fleece, synthetic insulation, down jackets and gilets etc.)
    • Warm hat and gloves – it is Scotland in May!
    • Plastic bags, trug or plastic box to put all your used cycling equipment into
    • Cash (if you want to purchase additional food and drink at the event)
    • Umbrella (spectators especially)
  • Electric bikes?

    You are welcome to use an e-bike at the KOM Sportive so long as it is safe, roadworthy and conforms to the DVLA rules for e-bike usage in the UK.

    Please pay particular attention when riding in a peleton as e-bikes typically have longer braking distances as the e-drive does not usually disengage instantaneously. Be respectful of other riders who feel uncomfortable riding alongside e-bikes. You may be asked to drop out of a peleton of riders and cycle by yourself.

    Practice using your e-bike on similar routes to the one you are attempting. You do not want to be caught out on the course with a flat battery, a long way from home. Consider taking your charger in a pannier or saddle bag – a friendly café or restaurant on the route might just be your saviour!

  • Compulsory equipment

    The following equipment is compulsory:

    • Bike in excellent working order – road bikes are best, but hybrid/touring bikes are also acceptable. Please note that fixed-wheel bikes (bikes that use pedals as a brake) are not permitted.
    • Helmet – the wearing of a helmet conforming to CE standard EN1078 is mandatory; it must be worn at all times when cycling.
    • Cycle clothing (shorts or tights, jersey, cycling shoes)
    • Filled water bottles & energy snacks. All routes will have food stations but you can’t rely on them to provide for all your nutritional requirements.
    • Basic bike repair kit: multi tool, tyre levers, pump, puncture repair kit and spare inner tubes
    • Fully charged mobile phone
    • Emergency money (£10 minimum suggested)

     

    The following equipment is recommended:

    • Windproof, waterproof top
    • Arm and leg warmers
    • Gloves
    • Glasses
    • Hat or buff
    • Small first-aid kit
    • Sun cream
    • Chamois cream
    • Cycle computer
    • Route card or map
  • Bike types and handlebars allowed

    No bikes with children in child seats, tag-along bikes or trailers.

    No fixed wheel bikes.

    No unconventional handlebars including triathlon bars, aero bars, clip-ons, prayer bars, Spinaci bars or cow bars.

    MTB bar ends are permitted on mountain bikes.

    You must use a roadworthy bike or tandem bike with two brakes.

    If you enter as a tandem you are required to register and pay for both riders.

Safety

  • First aid

    Professional event medics and first aiders will be on stand-by at the event base and around the course. However, we cannot provide 100% cover for all riders at all times. If you, or other riders, need first-aid assistance call the contact on the reverse of your rider number, and we will get first-aid assistance to you as quickly as we can. If you have an emergency which you believe may be life threatening call 999 or 112 immediately.

  • Support vehicle

    There will be a support vehicle for each route. These vehicles will have spare tubes and more specialist bike tools on board to help get you back in the game. If your bike is not repairable or you are exhausted and/or cannot continue, you and your bike will be offered a lift back to event base.

  • Is the event safe?

    Due to the nature of the event, the route and other road users there are inherent risks to your wellbeing. Whilst it is impossible to guarantee your safety we do consider it paramount. Detailed arrangements will be in place to ensure everyone enjoys a well-organised, challenging KOM Sportive experience. Professional event staff and first-aid providers will be located at regular intervals around the course (please read our Terms and Conditions and Medical Disclaimer downloads – see bottom of page).

  • What to do if you have a medical emergency

    If you feel unwell at any point or you injure yourself, stop and tell your fellow riders your symptoms. Ask them to help if necessary. If you need further assistance, wait for the support vehicle or call the emergency number on the reverse of your rider number.

     

    If the medical incident is serious call 999 immediately and THEN contact the event organisers. IF YOU RETIRE FROM THE EVENT YOU MUST TELL A MARSHALL or CALL the emergency number on the reverse of your rider number.

Training & Preparation

  • Training – top tips

    A sportive is a non-competitive open-road group ride. You need to be sure that you can complete the distance but you do not need to ride quickly or try to keep up with faster riders.

    If you are new to cycling or are intending to increase your training load then it is a good idea to visit your doctor for a medical or health assessment, particularly if you smoke, have a medical condition, are overweight, or if there is a history of heart disease in your family.

    Allow plenty of time to prepare yourself for the KOM Sportive. Slow and steady wins the training race.ᅠ Regular shorter rides a few times a week are more productive than one big ride a week. Turbo trainers can be useful if the weather is horrible but nothing beats the real thing.

    Riding with experienced like-minded cyclists can really help you train successfully. We recommend the Deeside Thistle Cycle Club as our local friendly club. Scottish Cycling and British Cycling can help you find a local club if you live further afield.

  • Professional coaching

    If you would like to receive expert personal training, coaching or bike-fitting we recommend the excellent services of Dr Jon Entwistle from EnthDegree Coaching, who has an impressive range of power meters, bike computers and software, but more importantly the in-depth knowledge and training experience of many years of competitive cycling that will help you improve your bike fitness.

  • 100 KM route

    The 100 KM route is designed ᅠfor riders who lead an active lifestyle, and isᅠ achievable as long as you’re prepared to train a little in preparation for the ride. Remember that although the 100 KM route isn’t as hilly or as long as the 110 Mile route it shouldn’t be underestimated – it remains a long and challenging day ride with a high snow road summit to conquer.

     

    If you’re new to rides of this distance build up the mileage gradually to avoid injury andᅠ over-exercising. This also creates a good base fitness ᅠon which to build the stamina levels you’ll need on the day. We recommend that you tackle a few rides over 3 hours in preparation and that you attempt riding hills requiring prolonged climbing of more than 20 minutes duration. Joining a club will help your resolve and allow you to practice group riding in a social setting. Riding with experienced like-minded cyclists can really help you train successfully. We recommend the Deeside Thistle Cycle Club as our local friendly club. Scottish Cycling and British Cycling can help you find a local club if you live further afield.

     

    Practice your on-the-bike nutrition and hydration in advance. We find that some energy products don’t agree with all riders. It is important to find out before the event what snacks and drinks work for you. Our superb food stations will be stocked with healthy and nutritious snacks.

     

    Ensure you bike is well maintained and that it is in tip-top condition before the event – you don’t want anything holding you back! Make sure you can change a punctured tube and have a basic knowledge of how to keep you and your bike going for a few hours of riding.

     

    ON THE EVENING BEFORE THE EVENT

    • Eat carbohydrates 3-4hrs before going to bed: pasta/rice/bread etc.
    • Drink plenty of fluids but avoid alcohol.
    • Get a good night’s sleep!
  • 110 Mile route

    The 110 Mile route is a long-distance sportive and ranks amongst the toughest in the UK. It has a lot of climbing and several significant summits to overcome. Do not underestimate this ride – you must be prepared mentally and physically for a full day in the saddle in the Scottish Highlands.

    Most riders attempting this route will be experienced cyclists and/or have tackled sportives and etapes of a similar distance previously. There is no avoiding the fact that you will need to cycle regularly in the lead-up to this event. You should be riding a long distance route each week through March and April to ensure your body and bike are ready for the challenge. Joining a club will help your resolve and allow you to practice group riding in a social setting. We recommend the Deeside Thistle Cycle Club as our local friendly club. Scottish Cycling and British Cycling can help you find a local club if you live further afield.

     

    Practice your on-the-bike nutrition and hydration in advance. We find that some energy products don’t agree with all riders. It is important to find out before the event what snacks and drinks work for you. Our superb food stations will be stocked with healthy and nutritious snacks.

     

    Ensure you bike is well maintained and that it is in tip-top condition before the event – you don’t want anything holding you back! Make sure you can change a punctured tube and have a good knowledge of how to keep you and your bike going for several hours of riding.

     

    ON THE EVENING BEFORE THE EVENT

    • Eat carbohydrates 3-4hrs before going to bed: pasta/rice/bread etc.
    • Drink plenty of fluids but avoid alcohol.
    • Get a good night’s sleep!
  • Illness & injury

    If you feel unwell or become injured at any point during the build-up to the event, stop and get medical advice immediately. Once you have the all-clear from your doctor to return to training remember that you CANNOT catch up on what you may have missed by training to excess. Return to exercise slowly and build up your distance gradually. If you are signed up for the 100 Mile route but feel that your training has been set back we can transfer you to the 100KM route (before the registration cut-off date).

    We wish you a speedy return to health and wellbeing! Happy cycling.

  • General pre-event preparation

    • Try and eat breakfast 2hrs before the event. Then have a small snack and drink 30 minutes before the event – energy drink, banana etc.
    • Eat and drink at regular intervals throughout the event (you must stay fuelled for your body to work at optimum efficiency).
    • Don’t go off at a pace too fast to maintain – start steady.
    • During the event set a comfortable pace and try not to get swept up into a higher pace when being passed by other riders.
    • Stick to your individual plan and above all enjoy the ride!

Food & Drink

  • Feed stations on route

    There will be several superb free food stations stocked with a nutritious mix of snacks.

  • Food at the finish

    Every rider will receive tasty snacks at the finish.  Free-froms will be catered for – please indicate this during registration in the medical section.

Travel & Parking

  • By bicycle

    Many riders do cycle to the sportive each year, and we encourage as many of you as possible to take this sustainable transport option. There are many excellent quiet routes that will take you to the start/finish. Be sure you can manage the additional distance on top of your selected KOM Sportive route!

  • By bus

    Please use the Traveline journey planner to work out your bus travel schedule to the Aboyne Community Centre, Bridgeview Road, Aboyne, Aberdeenshire AB34 5JN. The 201 bus route from Aberdeen has a stop beside the Community Centre and has a bike transport system.

  • By car

    The event base is located at the Aboyne Community Centre, Bridgeview Road, Aboyne, Aberdeenshire AB34 5JN.

     

    Parking is located on-site or on quiet public streets very close to event base.

  • Parking

    Parking is free and is located at the Community Centre or on quiet public roads very close by. Detailed information will be emailed to you a few days before the event.

  • Private buses & drop offs

    There is a drop-off zone directly outside the entrance of the Community Centre. Larger mini-buses may struggle to find space in the Community Centre car park and may have to park on a quiet public road close to event base.

     

Facilities & Services

  • Where to leave valuables

    There will be a free key drop at event base. You may leave keys and a wallet but you cannot leave bags or larger items.

  • Bike mechanics

    There will be qualified bike technicians from local bike shops and businesses available to make last-minute adjustments. Please note that time, resources and spares will be limited – we cannot guarantee that your bike will be seen to or that a full repair is possible. Please ensure your bike is serviced and in good repair before you attend the event. A small range of bike accessories and spares will be for sale.

  • Toilets

    There will be ample toilets on site and occasional toilet facilities on the route.

  • Disabled access

    The event centre has disabled access and toilets.

Friends, Family, Children & Dogs

  • Spectators welcome

    Spectators are very welcome and can enjoy the atmosphere, great local food and local attractions in Aboyne.  Please share transport where possible as parking will be limited.

  • Young adults 16-17yrs

    Young adults aged 16-17 may enter the sportive route. A parental consent from will be emailed to you a week before the event.

     

  • Children 11-15yrs

    Due to low participation numbers it is unfortunately no longer viable for us to offer either the 25 mile route or spaces for 11-15yr old riders . We hope to re-introduce this in the future and are sorry for any disappointment caused.  If you would like to see the return of this option please complete this very quick three question survey: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/DBCF6ZP

  • Children under 11yrs

    Children under 11 cannot participate in the sportive, but they are welcome to spectate.

  • Dogs

    No dogs are allowed within the Community Centre building or grounds. The start and finish line are on a public road so please keep your dog on a lead for its own safety and the safety of all  cyclists.

Volunteering

Volunteer and get rewarded

Photos & Media

  • Get your photo

    A Professional photographer will be snapping away all day; pictures will be available online after the event on our Facebook page – they are free to download. We can’t guarantee to get a shot of everyone but we’ll do our best!

  • Taking your own photos

    You are very welcome to take images of the event, but to protect the interest and viability of the professional photography team please do not offer to sell them online or through any other means.

  • Press & media

    We welcome all media coverage. Please contact us for more information.

Terms, Conditions & Policy

  • Event terms & conditions

     

    During online registration you will have the choice to agree and consent to the following event terms and conditions by ticking a box:

    Your entry to and participation of your selected event (‘the Event’, ‘The KOM Sportive’) is provided to you by Firetrail Events Limited, a company incorporated under the Companies Acts (Registered No. SC423552) and having its Registered Office at 28 Balnagowan Wynd, Aboyne, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, AB34 5GY (‘us’, ‘our’ or ‘we’), subject to these terms and conditions. References to the Event include all aspects of the Event organised by us including access, parking, the venue and the activity. By entering and participating in the Event you understand and accept the following terms and conditions:

     

    Nature of the Event, Risks and Your Responsibilities

    • You knowingly and freely assume and accept all such risks, both known and unknown, and take full responsibility for your participation in all elements of the Event. You have familiarised yourself with the information about the Event shown on our website and in the description below.
    • The KOM Sportive is designed to be a challenging event where participants’ resilience, fitness and mental toughness will be tested. You can ride solo or as part of a team. The object is to complete the route you are registered for.
    • The KOM Sportive is a non-competitive road cycling event, conducted on open roads (i.e. normal traffic will be present). It will typically be held in challenging outdoor environments that might include: extreme heat or cold; adverse weather conditions such as snow, ice, fog, humidity and rain; involve extreme changes in elevation; demand significant and prolonged physical effort; and involve an inherent risk of contact with hazardous flora and fauna. The KOM Sportive is a hazardous activity that presents a significant physical and mental challenge to all participants.
    • The participant accepts that the Event they are entering is not a race in any format. Rider times will be published for individuals/teams only and anyone considered to be competing against others will be stopped from riding and banned from entering future events.
    • We will use reasonable care and skill to provide an Event that is fit and suitable for KOM Sportive participants bearing in mind the paragraph above. Note that it is not possible to remove all elements of risk without compromising the unique challenging nature of the Event.
    • You acknowledge, accept and understand that the route, roads and terrain involved in the Event are physically and mentally challenging and hazardous, and due to the nature of the Event, there is an inherent risk of acute illness, injury or even death.
    • You understand that hazards within the Event may be magnified due to the fact that the KOM Sportive is often conducted under what may be extreme conditions and circumstances.
    • You recognise the inherent risks associated with the Event and consider yourself physically and mentally able to take part in the Event.
    • You are responsible for your own safety throughout the entire Event and you are taking part in the Event entirely at your own risk.
    • You will adhere to any instructions given to you by the organisers, officials and marshals before, during and after the Event, and we may stop you from taking part in the Event at any time.
    • You agree to (i) behave appropriately at all times; (ii) act respectfully towards all people, equipment, property and facilities; and (iii) participate in the Event with a cooperative and positive attitude.
    • You will notify the organisers, officials or marshals as soon as possible if you believe or become aware that any aspects of the Event route, facilities or equipment are unsafe or pose unreasonable risks to yourself or others.
    • You accept full and sole responsibility for the condition and adequacy of all personal equipment that you bring to or use at the Event.

     

    Payment, Entry and Registration Pre-Conditions and Liabilities

    • For safety reasons all participants MUST bring official photo ID to event registration. Acceptable forms of ID include passport, driving licence, firearms licence or other forms of national photo ID.
    • If you are aged 16 or 17 (on the day of the event) we will send you a parental consent form by email shortly before the event. You parents or legal guardian will agree to and accept all the event terms and conditions and will consent to your participation in the KOM Sportive by signing the form. You, the participant, MUST bring this signed form to event registration along with your photo ID.
    • No one under the age of 16 is allowed to participate in the event.
    • If you are entering to ride a tandem bike, both riders must purchase an entry.
    • Your entry fee paid to Firetrail Events is non-refundable.
    • Your entry is not secured until the Event entry fee is received by us.
    • We are not responsible for loss of or damage to property or for any additional costs you may incur in connection with the Event.
    • You will pay us and any persons or organisations acting on our behalf for any damages, loss or costs caused by any of your negligent or destructive behaviour during the Event.
    • We reserve the right to cancel or close down the Event if we consider there is an unacceptable risk to the participants, our staff or the general public. In this highly unlikely happening (e.g. extreme weather) we will do our utmost to reorganise the Event for another date but cannot guarantee a replacement and we will not be able to refund the entry fee or any other costs associated with the Event.
    • You must register on the date and times as specified by the Event Organiser.
    • Participants must display their rider numbers and timing chip provided at Registration at all times. The rider number must be attached to the back of the cycle top with emergency contact / medical information completed in full on the reverse of the rider number; the timing chip must be attached to the left-hand fork.
    • The Event has insurance cover; however we recommend that participants have appropriate insurance cover for their own bike, personal equipment and event cancellation.
    • If you wish to have cover for personal injury you must make your own arrangements.
    • Each participant accepts full responsibility for any fees or costs incurred or arising from the need for repatriation within or out with the UK.

     

    Equipment

    • Firetrail Events Ltd. reserve the right to refuse entry to the Event to anyone with inappropriate equipment or clothing.
    • Participants must ensure they adhere to the Event compulsory equipment rules – these will be strictly enforced.
    • Safety-approved cycle helmets (CE standard EN1078 or equivalent national standard) are compulsory and must be worn at all times when cycling. Any rider not wearing a helmet will not be covered by the Event insurance and will be excluded from the Event and could be liable for damages if involved in an accident on that basis. The rider must accept this as a condition of entry.
    • You must use a bike that is deemed safe for the purposes of the Event in the opinion of the Event organiser. Specifically, no fixed-wheel bikes are permitted and no bicycle (conventional or otherwise) is permitted to have unconventional handlebars including triathlon bars, aero bars, clip-ons, prayer bars, Spinaci bars or cow bars. However, MTB bar ends are permitted on mountain bikes.
    • Bikes with children in child seats, tag-along bikes or trailers are NOT permitted.
    • Participants will be responsible for the roadworthiness of their own cycle.

     

    Rules of the Ride

    • You will not give your KOM Sportive entry to anyone else, pretend to be anyone else or swap any participant identification methods during the Event.
    • You must follow the instructions provided by Event Officials, Marshals and Event Organisers at all times.
    • All volunteers and staff involved in the Event will be clearly identifiable. The marshals do not have the authority to stop motorists; they are there for your safety and that of other road users. It is the responsibility of each participant to take the correct course.
    • Participants will be set off in waves at the start. You must not start earlier than your allocated time.
    • All cyclists must adhere to and obey the Highway Code, local by-laws and laws of England, Scotland, Wales and N. Ireland where applicable and extend all reasonable courtesy to other cyclists and road users.
    • If you see anyone who requires additional help or medical assistance you will help to the best of your ability and report the situation to an Event marshal as soon as possible.
    • You must not deviate from the official Event route which will have directional signage throughout.
    • The marking of the route does not necessarily indicate that the road is rideable and the participant is deemed to make their own decision about whether to proceed on bike, foot or not at all.
    • Any marked route is shown for guidance only and Firetrail Events Ltd. do not insist that you use the route shown. Therefore, if the rider chooses to ride a section, it is entirely their own choice. If they choose a different route to avoid obstructions or sections they decide are beyond their capabilities, they do so entirely at their own risk.
    • Firetrail Events Ltd. reserves the right to shorten or alter the published route at any time. Participants do not have the right to claim a refund if the route is shortened.
    • If you retire from the ride or leave the route at any point you will inform the nearest marshal or staff member as soon as possible and follow their directions as to the safest return route to the start/finish area where you must inform Event HQ of your retirement and return your electronic timing chip.
    • You may not use your mobile phone while cycling. You must stop at the road side if you need to make or receive a call.
    • You may not listen to headphones while participating in the Event.
    • Mobile support vehicles in the form of moving cars or motorbikes are strictly forbidden and will lead to exclusion from the Event. You may, however, receive outside support from a stationary vehicle although any such vehicle must not interfere with the progress of the riders.
    • A Support Vehicle will be available on all routes. Any cyclists we consider will not be able to complete the route within a reasonable time will be asked to either get in the van, or to go on without a rider number and return their timing chip.
    • The Event Organiser will make every effort to provide participants with a ride time but is not responsible for any electronic timing issues.
  • Medical disclaimer

    During online registration you will have the choice to agree and consent to the following event terms and conditions by ticking a box:

    • You understand and acknowledge that participation in the Event may cause injury or injuries that may be categorised as minor, serious or catastrophic (see below).
    • Minor injuries are common and may include but are not limited to: scrapes, bruises, sprains, nausea and cuts.
    • Serious injuries are less common but do sometimes occur. They include but are not limited to: property loss or damage, broken bones, torn ligaments, concussion, exposure, heat-related illness, mental stress or exhaustion and infection.
    • Catastrophic injuries are rare; however, we feel that our participants should be aware of the possibility. These injuries can include permanent disabilities, spinal injuries and paralysis, stroke, heart attack and even death.
    • In the event of an accident or illness whilst taking part in this event, you hereby give permission to our staff and contracted first aiders to initiate first-aid treatment, any necessary medical transportation and to inform your next of kin.
    • You understand that you are taking part in the Event in a remote and rural location where there may be a longer medical response time in the event of emergency.
    • You agree to take part in this Event at your own risk and you will not hold us or our contractors responsible in the event of acute illness, injury or death.
    • You have submitted true and accurate information of your medical history and present condition that may affect your participation or medical treatment in any part of the Event.
    • You will inform us and associated first-aid contractors if any medical conditions have changed between submitting this information and the Event happening.
    • We strongly recommend that you get personal health insurance for the Event.
    • We will hire well-established professional contractors to provide first-aid assistance who will have their own insurance. We take no responsibility for the actions of contracted services involved in the Event.
    • We strongly recommend that you consult a doctor before undertaking any strenuous exercise, training programme or participating in the Event.
    • Throughout the Event, you acknowledge and accept that you may be checked for suitability to continue on grounds of capability based on your state of health. If any of the marshals and medical staff believe that your safety is compromised by continuing the ride, they reserve the right to ask you to stop. If you continue in the Event you will no longer be officially participating in the Event and we take no further responsibility for your participation.
  • Your personal data

    During online registration you will have the choice to agree and consent to the following event terms and conditions by ticking a box:

    • You may request access to, change or delete personal data held by us at any time.
    • We may occasionally email you information regarding future events. You may opt out of this at any time.
    • You give permission to use personal data provided by you (including medical information) and collected by us through entry and participation at our events. This will be used for administration, research and publicity of our events only. You also consent to your personal information being provided to third party providers who perform services on our behalf such as first-aid providers, marshals and safety staff. The information provided to these third-parties will be only such information which is strictly required for performing their service. In particular, you specifically acknowledge the necessity for us to provide those engaged in providing first aid and marshalling services with the medical information that you provide to us, in order to ensure your welfare during the Event.
    • We may use your name (and that of organisations you represent), voice, written text, photographs or film taken during the event you are participating in for the publicity of our events (e.g. online, print or broadcast media).
    • You give us permission to share your personal data with the nominated event charity. This will be used for administration, research and publicity of the nominated event charity only. This information may include your name (and that of organisations you represent), voice, written text, photographs or film taken during the event you are participating in for publicity purposes (e.g. online, print or broadcast media).
    • The phone numbers of your next of kin and medical information will not be used or shared with any third party, except with medical services during the event you are taking part in.
  • General privacy, copyright & cookies

    The following privacy, copyright and cookie statements only apply to the King of the Mountains (KOM) Sportive web site.

    • The KOM Sportive website is provided for use only by an end user.
    • Firetrail Events Ltd. disclaims damages of any kind, compensatory, direct, indirect or consequential damages, loss of data, income or profit, loss of or damage to property and claims of third parties implied or otherwise relating to use of this site.
    • Unless otherwise stated, all rights, including copyright, in the content, text and graphics of these KOM Sportive web pages are owned and controlled for these purposes by Firetrail Events Ltd. You are not permitted to copy, broadcast, download, store, transmit, show or play in public, adapt or change in any way the content of these KOM Sportive web pages for any other purpose whatsoever, in any medium, without the prior written permission of Firetrail Events Ltd.
    • In accessing the KOM Sportive web pages, you agree that you may only download the content for your own individual and non-commercial use.
    • You should be aware when moving to any other site of how that site deals with your information – do this by checking their privacy statements.
    • The KOM Sportive cannot be held responsible for the content or policy of any external website to which it links.
    • Any privacy statement may not be applicable in all countries, as security policies may vary according to the individual Internet laws in each host country.
    • If we decide to change any privacy and cookie statements, we’ll post the changes on this page so that you’re always aware of what information we collect, how we use it and under what circumstances we disclose it.
    • We put a lot of time and effort into describing, mapping and photographing the services and products we sell via this website. Although we aim that every picture, diagram and description is 100% accurate, mistakes do occur so please let us know if you see or read something that isn’t correct.

    Privacy Policy

    Firetrail Events Ltd is a Scottish-based events company.

    We are committed to protecting your privacy. To this end we will NEVER supply the personal details of any user to any third party unless a) you give us your explicit permission to do so, or b) we are obliged to do so by relevant authorities such as the Police or other emergency services. We will only use the information that we collect about you lawfully (in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998). We collect information about you for two reasons: firstly to process your order and secondly to provide you with the best service possible.

    Contact Information

    Firetrail Events Ltd.

    28 Balnagowan Wynd

    Aboyne

    AB34 5GY

    Email: contact us

    Directors: Richard Lawes and Jonathan Buckland

    Cookies and Privacy

    What are cookies?

    An HTTP cookie (usually just called a cookie) is a simple computer file made of text. The information stored in cookies can be used to personalise the experience when using a website. A website can also use cookies to find out if someone has visited a website before and record information (data) about what they did. The only personal information a cookie can obtain is information that a user supplies. A cookie cannot read data from your hard disk or read cookie files created by other sites. To find out more about cookies please visit the about cookies website.

    Laws regarding cookie use

    On May 25th 2012 a European Union law was implemented by UK legislation, The Privacy and Electronic Communications (EC Directive) (Amendment) Regulations 2011, with a requirement that all websites that leave non-essential cookies on visitors’ devices have to inform the visitor what these cookies are.

    This website complies with the above law by providing information on the cookies we use. This information enables you to choose to leave our website if you wish.

    When you visit our website with your personal browser settings configured to accept cookies this implies to us that you are in consent to our use of cookies as described below.

    Cookies used on this website

    The only cookies in use on our site are for Adobe Business Catalyst (BC), which is the host of this website. Adobe BC includes web analytics tool that improves the site visitor’s experience and helps website owners understand how visitors engage with their website.

    We use this service to record how many users visit our site, what they look at, how often they return and what sort of devices they are using.

    There are two types of cookies used on Business Catalyst sites:

    • Required – these cookies are necessary for site functionality and cannot be disabled
    • Performance and tracking – site visitors can disable these cookies

    For a full list of Business Catalyst cookies, see Business Catalyst Cookies – Quick reference (Note: we do not use any cookies relating to e-commerce).

    Social media and/or other plug-ins cookies

    Social media plug-ins for Facebook, Twitter, Strava, Garmin Connect and mapmyride obtain data for tracking purposes.

    If you want to know about their policies and how to opt out of their cookies then please check the privacy and cookie policies on their websites before navigating away from this site.

    Why we use cookies

    We use first-party cookies to track visitor interactions. They collect this information anonymously and report website trends without identifying individual visitors. We then use the information to compile reports, and this helps us to improve our website and your browsing experience.

    Your options regarding cookies

    Should you wish to do so, you can usually refuse cookies by disabling them in your web browser’s settings. However, if you are browsing from within a work-based network you may not have adequate permissions to allow you to control the cookies that are set. Ask your IT administrator/department if you are unsure.

    Most browsers are defaulted to accept and maintain cookies but you can set your browser to notify you when you receive a cookie, giving you the chance to decide whether to accept it or not. Please consult the support documentation for your web browser, which can be found online, for more information.

    More detailed information about controlling cookies on your computer is also available at the About Cookies website.

     

  • Environmental impact

    We take the view that everything we do has an impact on the environment. Our aim is to reduce the impact of this event as much as possible whilst promoting cycling as one of most accessible and sustainable transport solutions.

    • We supply recycling and general refuse bins at event base and at all feed stations on all routes.
    • Please help us by depositing your rubbish in the bins provided at the feed stations.
    • We action a thorough post-event route litter check to ensure any litter on route, or at Event base, is removed.
    • We operate a very strictᅠ leave-no-trace ᅠpolicy.
    • Items given out at feed stations will be unwrapped (where possible) to minimise any possible littering.
    • We reduce the carbon footprint of our company by cycling where possible, using web conferencing, limiting our use of print media, and by ensuring we buy re-usable event materials whenever possible.
    • You can help us by car sharing or cycling to the event.