Six-Hour Race Checklist

A six-hour race needs more than a marked route and a start time. You need permits, insurance, traffic control, first aid, reliable timing and enough volunteers to keep the course covered for the full event. This checklist puts the work in a sensible order, from recording the date and route through registration, equipment checks and race-day preparation. Use it to spot the details that are often left until the final week, such as dietary requirements, chilled drinks, spare bike parts and tested timing equipment.

The full checklist for this plan is being updated. The tips and answers below still apply.

Tips

Confirm the date, route and start-and-finish location before opening registration. Permit applications, insurance checks and route inspections can affect the course, so allow several weeks for changes and approvals.
Plan coverage for all six hours, not just the start. Assign volunteers to traffic points, registration, first aid, timing and rider support, and prepare a rota with handovers so no post is left unattended.
Test the complete timing setup before race day, including transponders, the time registration system, laptop, printers and power connections. Print a backup set of race numbers and route maps in case equipment fails.
Inspect every section of the route and place arrows, cones, barriers and warning signs where riders need decisions or extra protection. Keep spare signs and a way to communicate quickly with course volunteers using walkie-talkies or a megaphone.
Shop and chill drinks close enough to race day that refrigerated products stay fresh, then calculate supplies for six hours rather than only for the start. Collect dietary requirements during registration and pass the final list to whoever is handling food.

Frequently asked questions

How far in advance should I organise a six-hour race?: Start the main planning at least 8 to 12 weeks before the race. Permit, insurance, route, traffic control, first aid, timing and venue arrangements can all require changes before registration opens.
How many volunteers do I need for a six-hour race?: The number depends on the route and traffic plan, but schedule enough people for every fixed post plus registration, timing, first aid and rider support, with at least one handover during the six hours. Finalise the rota at least 2 weeks before race day.
When should I send participant confirmations and race numbers?: Send confirmations once registrations and dietary requirements have been checked, ideally 5 to 7 days before the race. Prepare race numbers, starter groups and route information before that message goes out.
What should I check the day before a six-hour race?: Check the route markings, barriers, tents, tables, timing equipment, radios, lighting and bike-repair supplies the day before. Chill drinks and pack race numbers, maps and spare parts so setup on race morning is limited to placement and testing.