So you want to host a Cranksgiving. That’s fantastic! You’ll be joining the ranks of 80+ events nationwide. You don’t have to be a professional race organizer to pull off a highly successful event, in fact, Cranksgiving is a great place to cut your teeth!
As a planner you’ll want to focus your energy into 4 areas, or find some friends to help you cover these basics…
The Route. Cranksgiving is typically based off the alleycat format, so ‘the route’ consists of a list of stops or checkpoints, usually grocery or convenience stores. Riders devise their own the fastest routes to the stores designated, taking into account traffic, trails and busy checkout aisles.
The Manifest. This is the list of items riders will need to collect. If you are working directly with a local charity, it may be helpful to check in and find out what items may be in short supply for the holiday season ahead.
The Promotion. Spread the word to local bike clubs, put a poster up in your local shop. Use Instagram, Facebook, your local newspaper’s calendar section, and don’t forget to submit your event listing to Cranksgiving.org.
The Big Day. Pick a start/finish location like a pizza joint, pub or restaurant that doesn’t mind if things get a little rowdy. Have someone who is good with numbers to tally receipts and keep track of time. Prizes aren’t really the point, but it is really fun to recognize the achievements of individual riders (fastest woman, fastest team, most generous, etc…)
That’s it! Of course you can go as crazy as you want, but those are the essentials. For a deeper dive, visit Cranksgiving.org or check out the Cranksgiving Organizer’s forum.