Wednesday July 1, 2020 at 5:20pm
Since the announcement of the return to Motorcycle Events within the ACU on the 27th May, Motocross Practice events and other Sports have been allowed to run since the 8th June, so long as they adhere to the Covid-19 Government Guidelines.
A few Motocross events have already taken place at both Toddington and Staplecross by the Luton and DMCC in the South Midland Centre and the Gest Hastings MCC in the South East. We have spoken to Jason Thorpe from the Gest Hastings MCC to find out how their first two events have gone during this transitional period as the sports resume.
The club have now run two successful Practice events for Clubs members and will be holding more in the future.
ACU - Since hosting the Clubs first two Practice events, how have you as a club found the restaging of events at the Staplecross venue?
Jason Thorpe: - It was like we hadn’t been away; everyone was just buzzing to be out on the track again. With all the special measures in place the paddock was very different and it was strange not having any spectators!
ACU – Can you give us a brief overview of some of the measures that you had to put in place to allow the events to take place successfully?
Jason Thorpe – We split the day into two sessions, as it made it much easier to adhere to the social distancing rules in the paddock and for us to make sure everyone was compliant. We invested in infrared thermometers and took everyone’s temperature before being allowed access to the event. We marked out the field into generous individual parking bays so as to maintain social distancing and allow riders to prepare for their sessions. Appropriate signage was located at the entrance and throughout the paddock. Hand sanitiser stations were provided and attendees encouraged to use.
ACU – How did you find the new ACU Covid-19 Risk Assessment Template and methods required to run these events?
Jason Thorpe – I found it very self-explanatory and common sense. The material provided by the ACU is robust and covers just about everything.
ACU - How has your local authorities reacted to your events and have they been supportive?
Jason Thorpe- Local authorities were all contacted before we even set the first date. Without the go ahead and support from them I would not have let these events go ahead. My advice to other clubs is to make sure you approach your local authorities and get their support.
ACU – Following the first event did you find any additional measures and changes that you needed to put in place prior to the second event?
Jason Thorpe – Our first event ran so smoothly that we did not need to make any changes.
ACU – Is there any advice or guidance that you would give to any other ACU clubs looking to run a Practice event during these Covid-19 times?
Jason Thorpe – To reiterate, make sure you get the backing of your local authorities and spend time planning. For now, it’s all about getting bums on seats and nothing more.
ACU – Finally as a club what plans do you have for events in the coming weeks/months?
Jason Thorpe – We are running two more practice weekends at our other track in Ringmer on the 5th July and the 12th July then fingers crossed on the 26th July we will be holding our first race of 2020.