Dancing Bear Bike Bash 2025
Date: Sat September 13, 2025
Location: Townsend, TN
1. OVERVIEW
- The 2025 Dancing Bear Bike Bash will take place in Townsend, TN on Saturday, September 13.
- Race will start and finish at at 137 Apple Valley Way, Townsend, TN 37882 (same as years past).
- Maps available via RideWithGPS: https://ridewithgps.com/events/390541-dancing-bear-bike-bash Participants and volunteers are encouraged download the free RideWithGPS app and save routes offline. Note: Routes will not be fully painted/marked this year.
- The course includes a 28 Mile, 36 Mile and 60 Mile route utilizing local roads in and around Townsend.
- Weather conditions are expected to be partly cloudy with a stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 87F. Winds light and variable.
- Communications volunteers are needed to provide logistical and emergency support along the race route for the duration of the event.
2. OUR ROLE
Provide reliable, real-time communications coverage along the race routes in order to:
- Relay status updates from race personnel,
- Report medical or logistical issues to race personnel,
- Monitor safety conditions along the course,
- Assist in coordination of race logistics (e.g., water stops, course closures).
Volunteers should be in place and ready for check-in by 08:45 and remain on post until released by Net Control.
3. EXECUTION
a. Concept of Operations
- Net Control will be established the start/finish area by 07:30.
- All field operators should check in by 08:45.
- Communications will be conducted on the 146.625 repeater (TSQL 118.8).
- Field operators will monitor the net throughout the event and report any needs or incidents to NCS.
b. Timeline
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 07:00AM | Coffee House opens. |
| 07:30AM | Packet pickup begins. |
| 07:30AM | Net Control active. |
| 08:40AM | Roll call. |
| 10:45AM – 2:00PM | Lunch service window for participants. |
| ~2:00PM | Event ends (subject to last riders). |
c. Assignments
| Tactical | Callsign | Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Director | WB3JKQ | Lou | |
| NCS 1 | KD4STR | Roger | and tow trailer |
| NCS 2 | W7FKI | Jim | |
| AUX | N9KMY | Dave | |
| BC | KK4XA | Bob | Bethlehem Church 60/36 mi routes |
| EJ | AA0JE/KK4MG | Jim/Mike | Ellejoy/OW Hwy all routes |
| SL | KD4VLH | Chuck | Sugar Loaf 20 mi on 60 mi |
| SAG 1 | KI4HDU | William | 60 mi route |
| SAG 2 | KE4FGW | David | 60 mi route |
| SAG 3 | AI4SI | Rick | 36 mi route |
| SAG 4 | NW1A | Craig | 36 mi route |
| SAG 5 | WB3JKQ | Lou | float + dry valley 9 mi extension 27 & 60 mi routes |
4. SERVICE & SUPPORT
- Please wear your Blount County ARES shirt.
- Operators are responsible for their own communications gear (HTs, mobile rigs, batteries).
- Operators are responsible for their own personal items such as water, snacks, chair, clipboard, rain gear, and any required medications.
- Dress appropriately for weather and standing time.
- All SAGS to carry basic tools, tire pump, Presta to Schrader valve adapter
- All SAGS must be able to carry bikes and riders. Bike racks preferred
5. COMMAND & SIGNAL
a. Net Control
- Roger, KD4STR, and Jim, W7FKI, will act as Net Control Station and coordinate all radio traffic and incident reporting.
- All check-ins, traffic, and releases should go through NCS.
b. Frequency Plan
- Primary: 146.625 MHz (-) TSQL 118.8
- Backup: 146.655 MHz (-) TSQL 100.8
- APRS on 144.390 MHz
c. Reporting
-
Check in with NCS on arrival at assigned location
-
Maintain situational awareness and report:
- Injuries or medical needs
- Hazards (weather, traffic, etc.)
- Logistical support needs
-
Clear with NCS before leaving your post
Be professional, prepared, and punctual. Your support is critical to a safe and successful event.