Registration now open for Bike to Work Week in Valley

Registration is now officially open for Bike to Work and School Week in Port Alberni. Taking place province-wide from May 29 to June 4, the event will be the third consecutive in Port Alberni and is set to be the biggest event yet. Register as an individual or as part of a team to bike to work, school, or anywhere you need to go. All community members are invited to participate. Sign up at www.biketowork.ca/port-alberni. The event is coordinated locally by Cycle Alberni (http://www.avtransitiontown.org/cycle-alberni/). From May 29 to June 4, participants log their cycling trips online, which enters them in a draw to win prizes such as sunglasses, a recipe book, a bicycle, and even a cycling vacation along Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. During the week, there will be daily Celebration Stations popping up at local venues around Port Alberni. Celebration Stations serve as rest spots and gathering spaces for cyclists and they include free snacks and beverages, free bike mechanic services, and prizes. At the end of the week, there will be a wrap-up celebration featuring a Bike Parade, food, entertainment, and prize draws. Additionally, awards will be handed out for the largest team, the most kilometers pedaled, and the most creative attire. Bike to Work and School Week is bookended by two informative bicycle skills workshops. First, a two-day Adult Urban Bike Skills Course will take place at the Echo Centre, with a classroom session on May 26 and on-road training on May 27. This course is brand new in Port Alberni and will help participants become comfortable cycling in traffic. The cost $50 per participant. Registration is through the Echo Centre (250-723-2181). On Saturday, June 3, there will be a Bike Rodeo for children ages 6-10 at the Echo Centre parking lot. This event will teach children basic bike skills and rules of the road to help keep them safe on two wheels. The cost is $5 per child. Advanced registration required. Call Echo to book a spot.