Lighthouse Cycling Tour Rules
• Each rider must be at least 18 years of age.
• Each rider must use a helmet at all times in accordance with the Law.
• Each rider must be in excellent physical condition and have medical insurance.
• Each rider's bike must be in excellent operating condition.
• Entry is by pre-registration only and only via internet through our link with active.com. No registrations will be allowed onsite the day of the event or after November 30, 2008.
• Each rider must choose between two start times. Start times cannot be changed after registration is processed. Faster participants interested in riding the LCT on their own as self guided must ride at a pace faster than 15 mph average. This group will be released daily at the times posted in this website. The rest of the participants will ride as one group at a pace of around 15 mph average. Once a participant joins the group ride, he/she will not be allowed to jump ahead to the faster paced group, however, a fast paced cyclist may choose to ride slower until reached by the slower group.
• Entry forms are accepted between May 1 and June 30 at a discounted promotional fee. Entry forms dated July 1 – September 30, will be at the regular price of the event for 2009. Late fee registration will be allowed to those registering between October 1 and November 30, 2008. Registration closes November 30, 2008 at 11:59:59 pm.
• Each rider must comply with lighting requirements and reflective material rules for riding at early evening, dusk or night during the event, particularly the first and last day.
• Each bike must be equipped with superior headlights and taillights. LCT recommends a dual headlight system, with 6-volt battery, several spare batteries, and a solid red taillight. LED lights are acceptable.
• For lights requiring AA batteries or smaller, the rider must carry a spare set and may be required to display them at bike inspection the morning of departure. Lights requiring rechargeable batteries are discouraged.
• Reflective vest or reflective sash and/or ankle bands are mandatory at dark hours such as those of day I and III.
• Alternate routes will be provided to follow vehicles and these must adhere to this second route in order to avoid excess traffic in the smaller narrow roads of the Tour. Support crew may not ride bikes along the path of the Tour with the rest of the riders.
• LCT must be completed daily within the schedule that will be prepared by the Tour Director. Any rider lagging the group riders will be requested to leapfrog the group in one of the support vehicles in order to avoid delaying services to the rest of the participants.
• The use of aero-handlebars is prohibited as of the 2009 edition. The use of I-Pods is also discouraged and the use of cell phones while cycling will not be allowed while riding in the group unless it is used via Bluetooth wireless technology.
• If a rider abandons, he/she is responsible of notifying the LCT staff by calling our phone numbers. The use of our SAG wagons is strongly encouraged for these riders.
• No refunds for no shows.
• The organizer, at his/her discretion, reserves the right to decline entry to anyone who enters after the field limit has been reached if this limit is announced, the entry deadline has passed or who is deemed unqualified to participate. Field limits has been set for 2009 at 350 riders.
What
kind of cyclist is expected to ride
the LCT? - Well, locally
speaking, the average SJCC rider is
40 years old (male and female),
12-15% are women, 60% are from the
Greater Metropolitan Area and the
rest are from other towns around the
Island. The ages of the cyclists
have varied from 18 years young to
68 plus years young. Most of our
cyclists are avid fitness,
recreational, non competitive guys
and gals that have been cycling for
at least a few years. Most have
completed centuries, ACP and RUSA
sanctioned brevets and a few have
even completed and or participated
in Paris Brest Paris while on the
competitive side we have cyclists
from the Puerto Rico Cycling
Federation, triathletes and a large
contingency of IRONMAN (and women!!)
that use our events to train and
have fun. Talking about training,
this Tour has also been used by RAAM
teams as part of their base
training. All these fine group of
cyclists are now looking forward to
participate in an organized,
adventurous "vuelta" of our Island
as they enjoy what they love most,
cycling!!
What
is included in the price of the
tour? - Breakfast, lunch,
everything in the oasis "snack
stops", opening and closing ceremony
food, support and gear (sag)
vehicles, luggage shuttle, technical
and mechanical support, Official LCT
jersey, Official LCT T-shirt, medium
sized goodie bag, large water
bottle, massage the second day, and
a support crew from the most
experienced long distance cycling
staff of our Island. (don't forget
the other extras as raffles, gifts,
etc)How fast do LCT Tour riders travel? - For the group rider, the average LCT day is 15 mph including rest sightseeing stops which means riding down the road at 16-22 mph. Self guided riders will no doubt scorch a few downhill’s carving every corner in sight well in excess of 40mph!!. The first day is the longest day and riders in the group ride are expected to arrive at around 6:00 pm .. That’s roughly twelve hours of cycling!! (Lights are absolutely required the first and last day ... you have no lights? You can't participate that day, pretty simple eh?)
Does
everyone ride together? - A
staggered start each morning
encourages riders of all speeds to
ride their own pace and regroup at
breakfast and lunch. This year we
will release the fastest self guided
riders ahead and the group riders 10
minutes later. Those riding in the
group will be led the entire day at
an average pace of 15mph in order to
arrive Ponce at around 6:00 pm. By
no means is this considered a
leisure ride and don’t expect to be
riding at 15 mph too long, faster
riding will be needed at times in
order to compensate for stops and
the occasional hill.
What
if I have bike trouble? -
Service vehicles from one of our
friendly cycling stores will
leapfrog during the day with spare
wheels, bikes and equipment. At the
headquarter hotel a repair area with
an experienced mechanic staff from
these two bike stores will help with
repairs and adjustments. All riders
should carry a few simple tools, be
able to change their own flat tires
if required, and adjust their
shifting as required.How do we carry our gear? - Each rider will be allowed one piece of luggage (40-lb. limit) that will be carried in the baggage truck during the day. Riders should still carry a seat bag for storing personals. Handlebar bag, although not required is recommended as well as fenders (a rare sight in Puerto Rico!!).
When
do we eat? - Each morning near
or at the hotel, a light continental
breakfast can be obtained, however,
on the second and third days we will
usually ride for an hour or so
before stopping at the designated
area where the official breakfast
will be served. Breakfast will
include pancakes, oatmeal, orange
juice and hot coffee of chocolate.
During the day at 25-35 mile
intervals more snacks and drinks are
supplied. A lunch is provided near
the 60-80 mile mark. A variety of
sandwiches, baked potatoes, soup,
pasta, fruit and dessert will be
served. Suppers are on your own at a
wide range of restaurants near or
within the hotel and in some cases,
hotels will have a buffet available
at a reasonable price that can be
added on to your hotel room account.
Where
do we sleep? - All participants
are strongly recommended that they
stay at the LCTHQ Hotel. For
logistical reasons, these hotels
will not have SJCC staff in order to
provide more rooms for participants.
If you choose to stay at another
hotel not mentioned in our site,
every participant must make his/her
own arrangements at these hotels
including moving his/her luggage.
Typically in Puerto Rico, rooms are
usually double occupancy with two
beds which can be shared with
another rider, thus making the room
that much more affordable.How fit do I have to be? - Based on past participants of 06, and 08's LCT they suggest you be fit enough to consistently ride 100 miles in around seven hours including stops, with 3,000 feet of climbing. (LCT has around 10,000 feet of climbing) Several back to back training days of 100 miles each are a good fitness test for the LCT Tour. By no means is this a leisure, tourist ride and remember, the first day has a 151 mile stretch before you get a nice swimming pool to dip into. Remember, this is a cycling event, not an event to go bicycling.
What
kind of bike do I need? - Most
if not all LCT riders, use a road
bike with low gears and reliable
wheels and tires. Compact crank
chainrings are recommended. A triple
crankset with even lower gears is
also a good idea. Wheels should be
32-36 spoke clinchers with 23-25mm.
Your tires should be suitable for
sections of rough pavement and the
omnipresent potholes along the way.
Bring a bike that can be serviced
with standard bike shop tools and
don't forget that lights are
required on all bikes (white front,
red rear) for the first and last day
only. It should be mentioned that we
have had riders complete the tour in
a mountain bike (2006) and in a
foldable bike (2008)!! Tandems,
recumbents and other human powered
vehicles are also allowed.How can I sign up? - Please review all the LCT information in this page the proceed click HERE in order to move on to the ACTIVE.COM site where we have a specially designed page that will address all the issues that relate to issues discussed in this website. Make note of the dates, payment schedule and cancellation policy which we remind you does not include refunds but you may transfer your space to another rider. No returns for no shows.
Waiver of Responsibility
In consideration of my participation in this event or in future events organized by San Juan Cycling Club, Inc. (SJCC), I, hereby, release in my name, that of my spouse (if applicable), in the name of my successors, heirs, assignees and hereditary wealth, and convene to voluntarily express, in the most ample way possible, to release and exonerate SJCC, its members, directors, officers, employees, volunteers, and every person that represents in any capacity of all responsibility for any damages that I can suffer or cause during the said events as established in the following paragraphs:
1. I recognize that this event or athletic activity constitutes an extreme test of physical aptitude and mental strength to the individual, and that it entails the risk of death, serious physical and emotional harm or damages to personal property or to third persons. These risks could be caused, without these being interpreted as a limitation, by the conditions of the streets, the terrain, temperature, climate, other athletes, equipment, traffic, lack of adequate hydration, or actions of third parties like participants, volunteers, spectators, trainers, organizers, monitors, sponsors, promoters and producers. These risks can also affect the volunteers of the event.
2. I certify that I have the health, physical condition and sufficient training that is needed to participate in this event. Furthermore, I certify that I do not suffer from any medical or physical condition that can impair or interfere with my participation. In the case of any known or unknown conditions, I am willing to accept all the risks and expenses caused directly or indirectly by this or these conditions. I have not been advised by any doctor to abstain from participating. I acknowledge that the event will take place on public transited roads which present inherent risks. If in any moment I understand that the conditions are not safe, I should stop my participation in the event.
3. I recognize and accept all the existing risks related to the events of SJCC; nevertheless, I choose to participate voluntarily despite the risks.
4. In a free and voluntary manner and in the broadest way possible, I relieve and exonerate forever, agree to compensate and liberate from all responsibility SJCC, its members, directors, officials, volunteers, employees, families, spouses, heirs including all event promoters or sponsors in addition to any entity that sanctions the event. I also include any claim, cause of action, lawsuit, lawyer expenses, legal action or any other procedure plus any ruling, resolution or order of the process that in one way or another are related directly or indirectly to my participation in this or other events of SJCC from any damage suffered by me or to my property or for any damages to third parties or their properties. This release includes any and all claims of rights and equity (fairness), due to actions or omissions, whether culpable or negligent.
5. I accept that by signing this document, and if I suffer a lesion or hurt myself while participating in the event, a court can determine that I relinquished my rights to initiate a lawsuit against SJCC, its members, directors, officials, volunteers, employees and all people who represent them in any way. I certify that I have sufficient insurance to cover any personal lesion or physical damage including any harm that I may cause another person or property that has nothing to do with the activity. Therefore, I convene to assume the costs of the lesions or damages.
6. If SJCC, its members, directors, officials, employees o any person representing it, has to incur in fees and lawyer expenses to enforce this agreement, I agree to compensate and liberate them from all responsibility of fees and costs.
7. I, hereby, permit receiving (being administered) medical treatment if it is considered necessary due to a lesion, accident or illness during the event.
8. I understand that during this event activities can be photographed. I grant permission for my picture to be taken whether it be for a picture, video or in any other media without receiving any personal compensation for any legitimate purpose for SJCC, its producers, sponsors, and organizers of the event or its assignees.
9. This agreement will be interpreted by the laws of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico (Estado Libre Asociado of Puerto Rico) and any claim that may arise from my direct participation in the event or from this agreement, must be presented before the Superior Court of San Juan. This release will be interpreted in the broadest form possible in favor of SJCC, its members, directors, officials, volunteers, employees and all of the people who represent it in any form.
I have read and understood the content of this document; I have signed it freely and voluntarily, and I agree to honor the conditions of the document.
Participant’s signature:
Date:
Print Name:
Birth date:
Address:
In case of Emergency Contact (PRINT NAME AND RELATION):
Call this number in case of an Emergency:
(All participants are required to sign this waiver)
Safety and Courtesy Guide for LCT Riders
The following list of rules of etiquette and safety are being provided to you as part of our safety campaign in order to avoid accidents between riders. These rules, when combined with legal rules of the road will make this event safer and more enjoyable for everyone. These are summarized as follows:
• Keep your bicycle in good repair. Have it ready and then keep it in good shape. It Is especially important to make sure your brakes work well.
• Wear a protective helmet in accordance with Puerto Rico Law. It is also Law to have a whistle which will be provided to you as part of our goodie bag.
• Wear bright clothing. Be noticed. At dawn, dusk or night wear light colored clothing and have a bright headlight and taillight.
• Signal turns and stops. Sound off when passing. Use phrases such as “on your left”, “on your right” or “coming through the middle”.
• Stop off the road surface not in the middle of the road.
• Turn left from the center of the roadway. Turn right from along the curb or shoulder, and stay to the right.
• Park completely off the roadway to make repairs, rest, visit, etc.
• Obey traffic laws. In Puerto Rico, cyclists enjoy the same rights as motorists. In accepting those rights, cyclists also assume the responsibilities for riding in a safe and legal manner by:
1. stopping completely at stop signs
2. obeying yield signs
3. not crossing yellow lines in your lane
4. riding in the right
5. signaling for turns
6. no cutting corners
7. riding in a respectable manner
• Use your brain when you ride. You must be constantly thinking and alert to what’s going on around you.
• Pace yourself. The Lighthouse Cycling Tour is not a race. It is a touring bicycle ride around the island of Puerto Rico for the avid cycling enthusiast. Not all riders travel at the same speed, so don’t try to keep up with someone that rides too fast for you. Riding too fast or in too high a gear is tough on your knees, heart and lungs.
• Be considerate. The cycling skills of those participating in the LCT cover the full range of the spectrum. Each rider must look out for someone else, as well as for himself.
• Be a predictable rider. Don’t keep other cyclists and motorists guessing about what your next move will be. A predictable rider is a safe rider.
• Be courteous to passing vehicles and other cyclist. Instead of riding several abreast, go single file and let those behind you pass.
• Cooperate with LCT officials. State police and other law enforcement personnel may be present at busy intersections. Obey their signals at busy intersections. Also, the LCT route has been selected for your safety. Please stay on the route. Services are not available to you if you are off the route.
• Keep your head up and your ears open. Do not wear radio headphones while riding.
• Give the right of way to emergency vehicles. Pull to the right and stop if you hear a siren.
• Beware of loose gravel, potholes, storm sewer grills and other.
• Avoid wide cracks in the pavement. Narrow bicycle tires can easily get caught in wide cracks. Be especially careful on roadways paved with concrete. Center cracks on concrete roads are dangerous.
Puerto Rican Cycling Jargon
Okay, assuming you know no Spanish, these are a few words or expressions that you ought to familiarize yourself with in case you hear someone shout them ahead or in back of you ...
• "Hoyo!!" ... there is a hole on the road somewhere. (practice the bunny hop!!)
• "Por la Izquierda" ... Passing through the Left side
• "Por la Derecha" ... Passing through the Right side
• "Parando" ... Stopping (usually someone raises their hand ahead with a closed fist)
• "Perro" ... look out! "wuf, wuf" ... and its not Lassie.
• "Cristales" ... Broken glass on the road ... look out.
• "Vamos a dar un palito" ... okay, get ready, the group is ready to crank it up, swallow your gel fast and buckle up.
• "Aprieta el paso" ... usually an instigating comment to go faster
• "Tumba, tumba!" ... The energy is now zapped and someone is shouting "Tumba" in order to see if they slow down before the shouter gets drooped.
• "Me dropearon!" ... I got dropped by the group.
• "Estoy bonkea'o" ... game's over for me ... "I am bonked"
Stay tuned, more will come.
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