Follow Van Operator

Job Description

The Follow Van Operators have some special duties, in addition to all the duties of the Van Operator. The most important duties are calling out specific locations, in order to help the next runner to prepare for their stage, and tracking each runners stage time (and relaying this to Net Control). The three location call outs are:
One Mile Out (the new runner needs to make their way to the line)
One Minute Out (the new runner needs to be on the line now)
In The Gate (watch for the current runner, stand by for the handoff!)
Because these messages are very time-sensitive, we are changing the normal net protocol for these three messages. Since the Net Control Station will know which stage each follow van should be approaching, Follow Van Operators only need to call out their tactical call sign, and the message. Net Control will confirm that they heard you by confirming the traffic, including the stage number.
"FBI Follow, One Mile Out"
"We copy FBI Follow, one mile out from stage 5"

Follow Van Operators should not call Net Control and wait to be acknowledged for these three messages. In past years, this extra communications has delayed this time-sensitive traffic, and we are making these messages the highest priority that we can. We will also be asking the Shuttle Van Operators to keep their transmissions short, to allow opportunities for Follow Vans to make these calls in a timely manner.

Follow Van Operators should use a condensed message for relaying their runners stage times, and then wait for Net Control to ask for the information. (Your call will basically let the NCS know that you have the information available, but we consider this information Low Priority, and the NCS will determine when they will ask for that information after your call.)
"Net Control, ALCO Follow, Stage 4 time"

Also, keep an eye out for the Follow Vans for other teams that are competing against the teams that we are supporting. Reporting the positions will be low priority traffic, so you should make a note of the time when you make the spotting reports, in case these are not called for quickly.

The Follow Vehicle operator is an important key to the success of our support efforts. Operators represent the Northern California Communications Team and can set the tone of the entire experience for the agency being supported. There are times that the vehicle may pickup additional riders and the van will become crowded. Remember, flexibility and communication are very important. Try and solve problems that will make life easier for everyone on board the vehicle.