The Estevan community took advantage of an opportunity to have outdoor fun in indoor settings as the Power Dodge Curling Centre turned into practice biking grounds on Saturday for the Bikes and Books Rodeo. The Estevan Police Service (EPS) and the Estevan Public Library joined their efforts to put together a fun family event.
The library set up their station right by the entrance. Visitors could register their six to 12-year-olds for the TD Summer Reading program that helps children not to forget what they’ve learned in school and to continue reading throughout summer. Besides, the library was promoting its Kindergarten Ready Story Time program suitable for younger patrons. They also brought their tablet kiosk and painting chart over to make a pit stop, where young riders could have a break from their safe biking practice routine.
The rest of the rink was re-arranged to allow children to learn safe riding skills. But prior to practice, all participants had to go through some information and safety checks.
The first station offered the helmet fitting service. Volunteers made sure that children had the proper gear and were offering extra helmets to those who didn’t have their own. Then the bikes had to go through a safety control stop, where experts checked tires and general condition of the vehicle and also did a rundown on the proper biking equipment.
After that, rodeo participants were turned over to EPS officers on duty, who explained the rules of biking on the road. They focused on hand signals, proper safety outfit and gear. They also were reminding participants that cyclists are considered vehicles when on public roads, and thus are required to drive on the main part and follow the same rules and laws that cars do.
Community programming officer with the EPS Monica Rae explained that this event’s main goal was to teach children the rules of the road and empower them to keep themselves safe as cyclists. Besides, it was a good reminder for family members that they as motorists are also responsible for keeping kids safe.
After the brief orientation session bikers went off for the obstacle course, which was the most exciting part. EPS officers and Mothers Against Drunk Driving volunteers helped riders to get through intersections, stop signs and sharp road turns.
“We were really pleased with this event, and the community support we received through attendance, sponsorships and the amazing volunteerism,” said Rae.
Sponsors supplied prizes for the raffle, which included visible and other bike accessorize. And one lucky cyclist won a $400 new bicycle sponsored by Ironside Energy Services. Mr. Mikes supplied the guests with delicious barbecue. And to make the day completely perfect after the rodeo there was an ice cream wagon waiting for guests outside.
Everything was free of charge, and about 75 children and their families attended the event.
And for the EPS and the library, the Bikes and Books Rodeo was a great way to get involved with the community.
