This week, in our series dedicated to behind the scenes in Les Gets #MADEINLESGETS, meet Jimmy, bike patrol in Les Gets for 5 years now. A true pillar of the team, he talks to us with pride and enthusiasm about a little-known but essential job: that of mountain bike patrol, or ‘bike patrol’.
A job driven by passion above all else
“Above all, it’s a job driven by passion!” Jimmy tells us. Being a bike patrol is much more than just monitoring the trails. It means working every day to ensure the safety, enjoyment and comfort of riders, while keeping a keen eye on the mountain. 🚵♂️
The 5 main tasks of a Bike Patrol
1. Marking the trails 🛑
The first task, and not the least important, is to install signage on all trails. Obstacles, crossings, zone numbering: everything is designed so that mountain bikers can find their way around and ride safely.
2. Trail maintenance🛠️
After winter, the trails are often littered with branches, pine cones and thorns. The team must then clean, clear and repair the terrain so that it is clean and pleasant to ride on. Nothing is left to chance to ensure a smooth and safe ride.
3. Advice and prevention ⚠️
Beyond maintenance, the Bike Patrol also has an educational role. They raise awareness among riders about the recommended equipment: full-face helmet, knee pads, chest protector, gloves, elbow pads, etc. Safety also requires good preparation.
4. First aid ⛑️
Although it represents only a small part of their mission, Bike Patrol officers are trained to respond quickly in the event of an accident. They provide first aid, secure the area, and alert emergency services if necessary.
5. End-of-season dismantling ⌛
When summer comes to an end, everything has to be dismantled, stored away and cleaned. The mountain is shared between summer and winter, so it is essential to refurbish the site for winter activities.
A team with a wide range of skills
In Les Gets, the Bike Park is run by a well-oiled team:
- 4 Bike Patrol members
- 1 shaper (manual tools: spades, rakes, hoes, etc.)
- 3 digger operators (heavy work on the trails)
- 1 Bike Park manager
A complementary collective, where everyone has their own speciality, to offer practitioners the best possible playing field. 💪🏼
The weather: friend or foe?
The weather plays a crucial role in this profession. Rain is essential for compacting and stabilising the soil, but it can also be destructive, causing ruts, puddles, mudslides, etc. This is why it is important to study each track, its slopes and weak points, and to regularly clear the drainage systems to prevent the tracks from becoming impassable. The aim is to keep the track passable, even when it rains. 🌧️
A final check before opening
Each track is tested and inspected before being opened to the public. This allows the team to adjust minor defects or refine certain sections to provide an optimal experience in the safest possible conditions. 🚵♀️
Bike Patrol is a job that requires fieldwork, passion and precision, where every detail counts. Thanks to Jimmy and his team, riders in Les Gets can enjoy their day to the fullest, with complete confidence.
So next time you hit the slopes, spare a thought for those who, at dawn or in the rain, shape every turn with passion! 👏🏼
