Ranging from 25 to 75 years old, the 10 active patrollers of the Red Rock National Mountain Bike Patrol are hoping to double their ranks in 2015.

“The RRNMBP is looking for local mountain bikers who like riding their bikes, enjoy helping other people, care about the management of our trails and want to learn and sharpen skills relating to first aid, bike repairs and communicating positively with trail users,” Patrol Leader Martin Glinsky stated in a press release.

“Our next certification course is scheduled for Saturday, May 9,” he added. “Among the requirements for certification are a course in first aid/CPR, the successful completion of a mountain bike patrol training course and a mountain bike skills class, taught locally by experienced mountain bikers.”

The RRNMBP has logged nearly 5,000 patrol hours over its five years in the Verde Valley, It is organized and supported by the International Mountain Biking Association and the Verde Valley Cyclist Coalition, operating solely through the efforts of volunteers.

According to Glinsky, it is not an enforcement group.

“The mission of RRNMBP is to help all users of our trails, including hikers, equestrians and mountain bikers …. Our local chapter works very closely with the Red Rock Ranger District of the United States Forest Service, receiving training from them in regards to volunteer requirements and correct interaction with trail users.”

Identified by at least one of three markers — RRNMBP clothing; a RRNMBP plaque on the front of the bike; or a RRNMBP patch on the patroller’s shorts —  the group’s patrollers do not have set schedules.

To read the full story, see the Friday, April 24, edition of the Sedona Red Rock News.