Cyclists, both new and experienced, have been donning their helmets and taking to Powell River’s streets, as part of a province-wide event this week to promote the sport as a benefit to health, well-being and the environment.
Bike to Work Week runs from Monday, May 26 to Sunday, June 1 this year.
Powell River Cycling Association (PRCA) is again promoting the event and Brooks Secondary School student Hillary Fleming is helping with its organization.
“It’s about getting people out on their bikes, having fun and being healthy,” said Fleming. “The environmental piece is a bonus.”
Riders are able to track their kilometres each day and see how much their ride reduces their carbon footprint.
While reducing carbon footprints is important, promoting cycling to children is a larger area of concern for Fleming.
“I haven’t seen as many kids riding around town on their bikes,” she said. “I wanted to do something about that.”
She and other organizers went around to the schools in Powell River and promoted the week to students, which she said was “extremely rewarding and the best part of the project.”
She added that the students have been “super engaged” and liked it that the organizers brought their bikes.
“People around town also seem to be really excited,” she added.
A total of 88 riders in 13 teams had registered. Throughout the week celebration stations, places where riders can stop for refreshments, snacks, entertainment and encouragement, have been set up, said Fleming.
Frank Chrinko from Suncoast Cycles will be giving free quick bike checks on Thursday morning from 7:30 to 9 am at First Credit Union and on Friday morning from 7:30 to 9 am at Brooks.
Celebration stations will run at First Credit Union on Joyce Avenue until Thursday in the morning from 7:30 to 9 am and riders are encouraged to drop by. A Tuesday afternoon station was organized in front of Quality Foods.
A pancake breakfast is organized from 7:30 to 9 am on Friday morning at First Credit Union.
A Sunday wrap-up ride starting at 10 am from the Canadian Martial Arts Academy. parking lot down to Willingdon Beach is planned. A recognition ceremony will take place and prizes will be awarded to riders in a number of categories such as best and worst helmets and outfits and most kilometres cycled, said Fleming. Every participant is also entered into a province-wide draw for a grand prize, she added.
