On the morning of the race event we will gather for administrative tasks, a safety briefing, and then meet up with our passengers (race officials or photographers). It seems common sense but I recommend for riders to have a 'copilot' briefing before you depart.
If possible it is better if you have ridden this event before to pair up with the race official you have ridden previously as you get to know each other and how your official likes to operate.
If you have not ridden with the person before, and possibly do not have much experience riding passengers in general, here are some recommended topics to discuss with your passenger:
- What is your experience as an official? How long have you done this?
- Regardless of their experience, explain briefly that you want them to let you know, and you acknowlege, when they are ready to mount your bike. And remind them to always mount on the left side (unless you prefer otherwise). They should shift their weight to the center as soon as they step up on the passenger peg and not pull on the bike to lift themselves up.
- The head race official will designate which officials they want to ride in what position among the pro bicyclists. IOW, some will ride up front with lead pro, some will wait for 50 or 100 bicycles to pass, and others may wait longer. Where does your passenger want to be in the line? How long to wait to go?
- How do you like to conduct your officiating duties? Do you like to sneak up behind groups of riders? Are you agressive in your penalties or do you like to give fair warning?
- Does your race official want to help you confirm penalties? Some officials want you to confirm the bib number, bike make, helmet color, or other identifying items so they get it right in their notebook. Some want assistance, others don't.
- Explain that you are there to serve their needs subject to safety considerations along the route. You will go where they want, forward or back in the line of bicycles, as long as you see the way is clear and safe.
- Ask your passenger where they would like to be dropped off. Some officials will go to the marathon and others will be done and may want to be dropped off at their hotel (the Mariott).
