Dear Parent
Congratulations on winning the lottery! We’re thrilled to have you with us.
This is the first of many weekly newsletters.
They usually arrive on Tuesdays.
Please read each one carefully. You’re responsible for knowing all RAC rules, procedures, announcements, and changes.
Every riding parent must read every newsletter.
1. RAC Requirements
Each adult rider + child: 1 Safety Fun Ride (September)
Each adult rider + child: 1 monthly ride minimum
Each adult rider + child: 2 Escondido Hill Rides (spring)
Each adult rider + child: 350 miles total before April 6
Record your miles. Mileage submitted in February
If parents take turns riding/chasing, both must complete all requirements
2. RAC Rules
By signing up, you agreed to our safety rules (we’ll review them as we go).
Ride predictably—for motorists and kids.
Be a role model: ride safely, ride smart.
Always single file. No overlapping tires.
Stop at every stop sign. Foot down. At the line.
Communicate. Pass left. Scan.
Helmets, vests, name tags—always.
Stay behind the first volunteer.
No Airbuds. No phones on bikes of 5th graders.
Stay with your child.
Be respectful to all.
RAC rules override standard road rules.
3. ABC Bike Check at Home
Air – Tires firm? If not, pump up.
Brakes – Squeeze. Working? Great. If not, tell us.
Cassette – Rusty? Dirty? Clean it. Not sure how? Ask—we’ll show you.
4. Vests
Included in your fee. Distributed before Safety Fun rides.
Must add first name front + back (parent + child).
Must fit over sweaters or hydration packs.
Hydration backpacks required eventually. Water bottle OK early on.
5. Bring on Every Ride
Bike(s)
Vest with names and helmets
Water (kids must carry their own)
Small snack
Small pump (if you have one)
Tubes that fit both bikes
Wrench (if no quick release)
7. Waivers
Sent via separate email. Sign + return before your first ride.
8. First Training Rides 🚴
Saturday, Sept 13 – Safety Fun 1
Mesa Verde Middle School, 8375 Entreken Way, San Diego, CA 92129
Arrive 8:30 a.m. (vests, names, unload, check in)
Ride starts 9 a.m. sharp
Safety Fun 1 Click here.
Download the ridewithgps app. (Basic features are free). You will see:
Route, miles ridden, and number of feet climbed—the red graph at the bottom shows where the hills are.
Arrive by 8:30 a.m. Pick out vests, write your name, unload the bike, and check in with attendance.
We begin promptly at 9 a.m.
Sunday, Sept 14 – Safety Fun 2 + Bike Path
Mesa Verde Middle School, 8375 Entreken Way, San Diego, CA 92129
Arrive 8:30 (new vests) or 8:45 (if you already have a vest)
Ride starts 9 a.m. sharp
Safety Fun part 1 & 2 are identical—you may do both
Every rider must complete one Safety Fun
Full ride calendar:The Ride Across California. Calendar
9. Questions?
Just ask—we’re here to help.
Congrats again—we’re so glad you’re here.
Christiane and your friendly volunteer team.
P.S. Future newsletters will be shorter. I promise