Group-Event Rides

Group and event rides/runs are those that are organized by sponsors, clubs, teams and Zwift. These types of rides/runs are numerous and start at all times of every day. There is bound to be an event or group ride starting whenever you randomly decide to ride/run in Zwift.

#### Where to find Group-Event Rides

You can access the list of group-event rides from various places. Here's a list of common methods to select them:

* Log into the Zwift game and at the home screen, select the calendar icon in the upper left corner. This will bring up a list of group-event rides/runs that are available in the next 60 minutes. There is a limited set of search and sort functions.
* From the home screen on the companion app, select 'Events' and you can scroll through upcoming events
* Log into Zwift.com, select 'Events' from the top menu bar. This will list events in chronological order. Unfortunately, there is no method to search and sort this list.
* Zwift Hacks offers a very robust tool for finding group-event rides/runs. No software needed to download or install. There are several search and sort functions to narrow down your requirements to locate just the right group ride or event that you are looking to find. Additionally, this site lists events many weeks/months ahead of time so that you can plan accordingly.

Once you've found a group ride-event, simply select the '+' to add your name to the ride-event. You will be prompted in-game at 4 minutes and 20 seconds prior to the ride-event start to join the group. You can delay this prompt if you're still warming up but it's good to get with the group at least a 60-90 seconds prior to the start as it takes a a little time for the group ride to appear on the screen.

#### What to look for when selecting a Group Ride/Event

Other than finding the right date/time for a ride-event, there are some other things to be considered when selecting to attend. The group rides-events are broken up into 3 types: Ride/Run, Workout or Race. Generally, each group ride-event lists the following info:

* Duration or Distance - Some rides are duration (time) based meaning they will ride only for a given amount of time before being considered complete. Other rides are distance based meaning you will ride for that distance before the event is completed. There's is nothing preventing you from leaving early but you won't complete the event if there is any prize awards.
* Route & Elevation - Rides are based on existing or event only routes. So the event will tell you the route they will be using (and any multiple laps) and it's elevation.
* Category or Power Rating - The ride will define at what category (A-E) they will be riding at. Some events all have different routes base on category so be sure to select the correct one for you. So if you're a Category D rider and sign up for a Category A ride, expect to fall behind or put out more power than you normally would. There's nothing wrong with challenging yourself but don't expect the pack to slow for you. Sometimes, the ride will list a pace in terms of watts instead of category. Essentially, this is a way of stating the same thing. Category E means that the event will have riders at every level together.
* Rules-Restrictions - Many group rides-events have additional rules or restrictions. For example: *Late Join* allows you to join the event up to 30 minutes after the start, *Ladies only* means the event is only for women riders as the gender defined in your profile, *Doubledraft* means the drafting is doubled for the event, *No TT* or *No Steering* means that TT bikes are not allowed or steering functionality is turned off, *Fence* means the the ride leader will enforce the fence to keep riders together
* Jersey Unlock or Completion Prize - Many group rides-events offer a virtual prize such as a jersey (kit), socks or helmet/cap. Check the event prior to riding if you're expecting to receive an award for completing the ride. Once the ride has been successfully competed, the prize should be in your garage. Some rides even offer real life prizes usually to the rider closest to the ride leader at a specific time during the ride.
* Bike Choice - Some sponsored events will dictate the virtual bike that everyone will use for the ride.

#### Ride Leaders and Sweepers

Many of the group rides are led by Ride Leaders. These are people who donate their time to organize and lead the ride for all our benefit. For high profile events, the Ride Leader might be a celebrity or cycling pro. The Ride Leader is designated by a yellow beacon. You can easily spot this as it shines upward on the course. The Ride Leader will dictate the pace and should follow what was listed in the event description. It is considered proper etiquette to stay bunched up with the ride leader so that the entire group can gain the best draft advantage. Riders that jump out front and ride at a faster pace are called 'flyers'. If the ride is fence enforced, they may be kicked out of that particular ride. The ride leader often helps pass the time with tidbits of information on cycling skills, encouragement or just random thoughts. There is also group messages to which anyone can chime in as well.

Sweepers are support help for the Ride Leader. Sweepers are designated with a red beacon. Their job is to help keep riders together and with the main group. So the sweepers will look for riders that have fallen behind and help them get back to the group or at least join other riders who have fallen behind to form their own smaller group. Sweeping is a tough job and requires the strength to help pull other riders back to the pack.

Not every group ride has a ride leader or sweeper. You will appreciate their support after not having them for some rides. Many sponsored events do not have ride leaders and sweepers.