If you have noticed more cyclists on the road this week, it’s because Bike to Work Week is in full swing. The annual event that promotes fitness and a healthier environment got off to a successful start with a number of cyclists participating in a parade followed by the first ever attempt to offer bike valet service.
Event organizer Jim Swanson said they had a place for people to leave their bikes in a secure place during Family Days in Qualicum Beach last Sunday. He said about 15 to 20 cyclists took advantage of the service. He said they will offer it again during Canada Day festivities in Parksville July 1.
Bike to Work Oceanside has 12 teams registered for the annual event with a current total of almost 100 cyclists.
As a part of the Bike To Work Week activities, the City of Parksville and the Town of Qualicum Beach challenged each other to the first annual Oceanside Civic Bike Challenge. Qualicum Beach’s Ride was on May 28 and Parksville’s Ride was on May 29.
Around 35 people took part in Parksville’s community ride, including most of council and some city staff.
It’s not official yet, but it doesn’t appear Parksville matched Qualicum Beach in the friendly competition.
The winner will be announced after the community ride to the Little Qualicum Cheeseworks on June 3. The winning community will receive the Oceanside Civic Bike Challenge Trophy.
The winner will be announced at Little Qualicum Cheeseworks Sunday.
The first annual community ride to Little Qualicum Cheeseworks starts at 1:30 p.m. You can cycle to the event from either Parksville or Qualicum Beach. In Qualicum Beach cyclists depart at 12:30 p.m. from the start of Dollymount Trail — by the Legion. Registration starts at noon. In Parksville cyclists leave 12:45 p.m. from the Community and Conference Centre. Registration starts at 12:15 p.m.
The public is invited to take part in the festivities which will include music performed by the Little Qualicum Jazz Birds.
The farm is located at 403 Lowry’s Road which is also home to Morningstar Farm and MooBerry Winery.
— with files from
Auren Ruvinsky