FOR RIDE
MANAGERS

A loan program has been established in 2005 for Ride Managers of FEI one day 100 mile rides to assist in covering up-front sanctioning fees due one year prior to the ride.  A maximum of 10 grants per calendar year have been budgeted by the AERC International Committee with a maximum of $800 per ride.  This program is the International Committee's answer to what can be done to promote FEI Rides in this country.  There were several options considered but this is the one that would best expedite the process.  The committee will review the Loan Program annually to evaluate if this program meets our objectives.  The stipulation to the Ride Managers would be that the grant funds are to be repaid after the conclusion of the event.

Interested Ride Managers need to contact one of their Zone Representatives listed in each issue of Endurance News.  The Zone Reps will qualify the ride managers who apply for the load through the interview process.  Factors to be considered in the interview process:

• The Ride Manager's experience at managing 100 mile rides (this is paramount)
• The Ride Manager's experience with managing FEI rides (preferred but not required)
• What are the Ride Manager's volunteer base, infrastructure, and event planning capabilities?

With the Zone Representative approval the Ride Manager will present the above listed credentials to the International Committee.  In addition to the above items the Ride Manager will be required to present a proposal budget structure detailing up front expenses for the ride.  The up front money required will determine how much money will be made available to the applying ride manager up to the maximum of $800.  After the International Committee approves the funds the Chairman will notify the AERC office of the amount of money approved for the Ride Manager.  The AERC office will then present a check to the Ride Manager from the International Account.

The International Committee recognizes that the first time FEI ride managers are faced with new deadlines and forms to fill out.  To fill this need the following individuals have volunteered as coaches to assist potential FEI Ride Managers:

• East Zone-Tom Hutchinson (207)369-2923
• Central Zone-Grace Ramsey (815)845-2494
• Mountain Zone-Jan Stevens (406)784-2469
• Pacific North Zone-Stephanie Teeter (208)834-2788
• Pacific South Zone-Connie Creech (775)882-6591