Hi Guys and Gals, I just want to put some perspective behind the Helivac Marshals intiative and service. There seem to be alot of confusion going on around who we are, and what we do. Here goes, please bear with me... We started a Marshaling group in June 2010, a group of us (5) that previously cycled as well. We were very concerned with the amount of fatalities and injuries sustained by cyclists during events, training rides etc. How can we make this better, how can we improve the situation? Since we all have motorcycles, we thought it best to use it as a tool to keep the guys safe. We got to know JP van Tonder from Helivac through the Cycling Training group in Alberton. After a brief meeting, JP offered his sponsorship to this small group, we will carry the brand, and Helivac will provide the finances. Thus, the Helivac Marshals were born. We have used the Training Rides in Alberton South as a training ground, and we still do. Since June 2010 we have grown in numbers and also established our own Section 21 organization with a board of directors comprising of the Marshals themselves. We have a recruitment policy in place to ensure we only accept the best Motorcyclists out there, the guys with the correct attitude and motivation. You will not believe it, but 90% of all our Marshals used to cycle in the past, some still do. Every trainee marshal has to undergo a strict training program, only after the candidate has displayed that he/she has mastered the required standard, he/she is accepted as an Helivac Marshal. Pointsman and First Aid training forms part of the syllibi. We do not receive millions of bucks each month, so sometimes we rely on donations, or the earnings from events to further the growth of the Helivac Marshals. We have also recently started a safety campaign for cyclists to ensure motorists and cyclists alike can Share the Road. The whole intitiative of the Helivac Marshals is based on passion, not only for the sport, but also for the Safety of the cyclists on the Road. due to the Marshals understanding of the sport, the high standard of training, and the proffessionalism, we can be a huge benefit to any event. We do not seek financial remuniration to line our pockets, we sometimes render the Services of the Helivac Marshals for free. Next time you see a Helivac Marshal standing in an intersection, or riding next to you in the race, or at the start/finish, come say howzit. We always appreciate the feedback and we are also very thankfull for the compliments. We carry some stickers with us, show your appreciation by asking for one and sticking it up for all to see. I salute all of you, With respect. Jasper Head Marshal and Chairman Helivac Marshals jasper@helivacmarshalls.co.za 082 443 9101 web: www.helivacmarshalls.co.za forum: www.bikemarshal.co.za
