Welsh Cycling has launched a Volunteer Network to harness the passion of sports fans in Wales to get involved in cycling.
From helping out at your local club to supporting major events held here in Wales, Welsh Cycling will be able to provide opportunities for all to support our sport.
Regular volunteering updates will be shared with those who sign up to the network, and showcased on social media using #BehindEveryRace
Olympic gold medallist Elinor Barker has given her backing to a campaign by Welsh Cycling to encourage more volunteers to get involved in the sport and help Wales to capitalise of the surge of interest that has emerged following the success in Rio.
Cardiff-borfn Barker, 22, said of the Volunteer Network:“I have so many great memories of growing up with cycling in Wales and we have some fantastic clubs and events right across the country.
“Race organisers, as well as the clubs are creating lots of different opportunities for people to get involved as volunteers, so it doesn’t matter if you can’t make it to an event every week and you can try your hand at lots of different roles.
“For parents, it’s also great way to inspire your kids to get involved with a great sport that keeps you fit at the same time as meeting new friends.
“More importantly, without those volunteers there would be less opportunities for people to train, compete and just enjoy their sport in a safe environment.”
As part of the Volunteer Network, a Youth Panel will be established to support Welsh Cycling in extending its offer to young people in Wales who want to ride, race or volunteer in a fun and safe environment.
Young people aged 14-21 are invited to join the panel from January 2017, which will be led by Young Ambassadors Lauren Holmes and Cerys Bate.
A new reward scheme has also been set up that will see first-time volunteers of all ages and backgrounds given a Welcome Pack on registration, as well as entry into regular prize giveaways and recognition through the Volunteer of the Year Award at the annual Welsh Cycling dinner.
Anne Adams-King, Chief Executive Officer of Welsh Cycling said: “There are so many different roles for volunteers, from race marshals and officials, to social media officers and administrators, not to mention the people who run the various cycling clubs around Wales which rely heavily on the support of volunteers.
“It will be exciting to see our Youth Panel emerge from the Volunteer Network. Young people can bring fresh ideas to the table, and a new way of thinking in our sport.
“That, coupled with the success of our young stars like Elinor, will inspire the next generation of riders, racers and volunteers. There really has never been a better time to get involved.”
Volunteer opportunities for 2017 include Welsh Cycling Track Championships, Welsh MTB Cross Country Series, Velothon Wales and more regular support within cycling clubs across Wales.
Sign up to the Welsh Cycling Volunteer Network here or for more information on the Youth Panel, please e-mail info@welshcycling.co.uk or message us on Twitter or Facebook.