Community bike ride draws Castlegarians of all ages
By Rev. Greg Powell
Castlegarians of all ages pushed their pedals and rang their bells for the first community bike ride since the new bike ways opened. About 20 gathered at the Complex and made their way together to Millennium Park.
"Bikes are an important part of the culture of our family, so it was great to be able to celebrate with a group like this," said participant Danielle McLean, whose partner and two preschoolers also joined the fun.
Gerry and Jude, grandfather and grandson, took part for similar reasons. "When we use bikes to get around, our community grows stronger and our citizens get healthier," said Gerry Sobie, whose e-bike helps him keep riding into his 70s.
According to co-organizer Nicole Hergert, some came for political reasons like ensuring support for cycling infrastructure continues, while others just came for the fun of it. "Seeing all those bikes decorated with streamers, and all those kids and adults alike making use of Castlegar's facilities was really heartwarming. I'm already looking forward to the next one!"
Organizers haven't set dates yet, but they expect another ride to celebrate summer and a final ride to celebrate fall, before the snow flies.
"Ultimately this is about nurturing Castlegar's culture of bikes, which are good for people, good for our environment, and good for local business," Hergert said.
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