Participation in the Event

Guide to taking part

Participants for both routes will start together at the Start/Finish area adjacent to the Hazlehead Bus Shelter, beside the playing fields at the left of the main entrance to Hazlehead Park. The Bike Ride will commence at 12.00am, however we request that participants begin assembling at the Start/Finish area from 11.30am.

All cyclists must register prior to participating in the Bon Accord Bike Ride. This can be done in advance by downloading the entrance form and posting it, or by registering on the day of the Bike Ride. Registration facilities will be open from 11.00 am on the day of the Bike Ride at the Hazlehead Bus Shelter.

To take part in the event we are encouraging participants to raise as much sponsorship monies as they can. However with a view to maximizing participation a minimum donation of £5 per rider, £10 per family or £100 per large group will be accepted.

If possible please submit your entrance donation and all your raised sponsorship funds, if any , to the registration facility on the day of the bike ride. If not, we urge participants to submit any funds by post as soon as possible after the Bike Ride to the address shown on the downloadable entrance form.

All registered participants will receive a momento of the event donated by our sponsors, which can be collected from the registration tent after finishing the ride.

Whilst there is no time limit to completing either route, the marshalling, support vehicles, medical cover and start/finish area facilities will not remain in place beyond 4.00pm on the day of the Bike Ride.

Fundraising Tips

Asking for money isn’t always easy, so here are some tips to help you:

Set yourself a target - The most important starting point is to set yourself a target, whether it’s £50, £100 or even more than that! Decide on an amount you want to raise and if you find it hard to ask, remember your sponsors will be supporting our nominated charities life-saving work.

Tell everyone - It doesn't matter how you tell people, just tell everyone you know! You can set up your own fundraising web page and email it to your friends, text them with information on your target, or just tell people when you see them that you are raising sponsorship.

If you cycle regularly, you can always challenge yourself to complete the route in a certain time – with bonus payments from sponsors if you beat that time!

For those of you who enjoy a game, you can run a sweepstake. Just ask your supporters to guess what time they think you’ll complete your race in.

Download a sponsor form (PDF), fill in your personal details and get it circulating – at work, at school, even at the gym! Every penny of your sponsorship counts!

Health and Safety Tips

To ensure participating in the Bon Accord Bike Ride is a safe, fun, & rewarding experience it is essential that participants observe the following guidance:

Always wear a cycling safety helmet that complies with the appropriate British standards.

Please wear brightly coloured clothing that is comfortable and appropriate for spending up to few hours on a bicycle.

Ensure you are prepared for all likely weather conditions.

Ensure that your bike is in good working order and that the brakes have been properly serviced.

Always comply with the rules of the road.

Be courteous and considerate to other road users and allow sufficient space for vehicles to overtake.

All participants under the age of 12 should be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Remember – this is not a race! Enjoy the picturesque route(s) and pace yourself!