HOST AN ATHLETE

Local Volunteers are needed to host top cyclists from around the country and around the world who will be competing in Chicago Grit. This unique opportunity offers you the chance to get to know the country’s top riders and get a peek behind the scenes of the racing lifestyle. Lifelong friendships are often formed.

Hosting riders in individual homes is a huge factor in recruiting teams. Invite your neighbors too. They can help by providing housing so that entire teams can stay in the same geographical area (ideal situation). Please pass this information on to your friends, family and co-workers.

Host families are asked to provide:

• A comfortable sleeping space, bed or air bed
• The use of a bathroom and shower
• Use of kitchen to prepare meals
• Counter and refrigerator
• Use of your washer and dryer
• A secure place for the cyclist(s) to store their bicycle at night

Note: You are NOT expected to provide food or transportation.

Will the riders want to be in my home when I’m not there?

No. They are looking for a place to sleep at night. If you’re willing to let them use your home during the day, that would be nice, but it isn’t required. However, due to the race schedules and some remote locations they will most likely arrive home past 10:00pm. They can let themselves in if you don’t want to wait up for them.

Will I have to feed them?

No. Host often invite riders for a meal but it is not expected. They will need the use of the kitchen (they will clean up after themselves). They will need the use of your refrigerator and counter space. Some may ask permission to use your washer and dryer.

Will I have to provide transportation?

No.

Will my home be treated like a hotel?

No. Riders stay in many different homes and they would like to be invited back. They know how to be good guests.

Granted, these are nice people. Do they have any other reason to behave well?

You bet. These are all sponsored riders and teams. They are very aware that they are representing those sponsors and teams for the entire time they are in town not just when they are racing. They want those sponsors and teams to hear good things about them.

Will I have an uncomfortable conversation with the riders when I define the limits of what I’m willing to do?

No. Our host housing coordinator is an advocate for both the riders and hosts. You tell us your limits and we will pass it on to the riders. These riders are very flexible and gracious guests.

How will I know if I have been accepted as a host?

You will be notified when host assignments have been made by email and/or by phone. Your guest(s) will also contact you shortly after the assignments have been distributed.