Putting the pedal to the pavement is the theme of the annual Bike to Work and School Week which began Monday.
The province-wide initiative celebrates and promotes cycling as an all encompassing means of getting healthy, low cost and socially-responsible means of transportation.
In Penticton the Penticton and Area Cycling Association got things underway for the 10th annual event with a kick-off breakfast at Smuggler’s Smokehouse in the 500-block of Main Street where cyclists had opportunity to enjoy breakfast sandwiches as part of the celebration station stop.
While eating they had an opportunity to try out the bike valet station where they were able to put their bikes safely on a rack.
“With this (bike rack) we can have 16 bikes in one vehicle parking space,” said local co-ordinator Karina Chambers.
There are a number of prizes available to be won by participants including the grand prize of a cycling trip for two to Prosecco Hills, Italy.
There are also five $100 Visa gift cards for first-time event riders.
To qualify people must use their bicycle instead of a vehicle for at least one trip during the week and log that trip online at www.biketowork.ca
Those wishing to take part can do so individually or as a team.
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Other celebration stations scheduled for the week that run from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. are May 28 at Nature’s Fare Market North #103-1770 Main St., May 29 at Shades on Main Restaurant 1909 Main St., May 30 at Booster Juice at Cherry Lane Shopping Centre and the Dale Charles & Sports Clinic Physiotherapy Clinic wrap up barbecue from 4 to 6 p.m. at Gyro Park.
READ MORE: Gear up for Bike to Work/School Week
Also, on May 29 starting at 6:15 p.m. there will be a family leisure ride at the Penticton Art Gallery for all ages.
It is an opportunity to practice in a safe, supported and police-escorted environment.
To register for bike to work go to www.BikeToWork.ca/Penticton.
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