Last week Cycling BC’s iRide program re-started its autumn scheduling with visits to Sidney Elementary, Kelset Elementary and Queenesh Elementary on Vancouver Island. Thanks to the on-going support of the school districts of Victoria and Comox, iRide continues to expand on the island and is currently finalizing a full calendar of events for next spring.
iRide Head Coach, Adam Walker, reports from Victoria:
Brandon Archer (iRide Head Coach from Kelowna) and I had a great time working together and we really changed some kids’ lives out here last week. We visited two schools with a 1st year program at Sidney Elementary and a 2nd year program at Kelset.
At both schools, there were quite a few kids who couldn’t ride on the first day, but Brandon and I were very impressed with the students. They really brought their A-game. I am optomistic that we can utilize Cycling BC’s iRide Cycling Group program and the 2017 coaching grants to train more local teachers and parents to build on the skills and excitement developed during our visit.
The kids at Sidney Elementary had never had an iRide program before and I feel like we really made a strong impact. Despite the slow start, all the students tried the iRide stunts and bumps on the final day. It was really exciting to see the focus and positive vibes from the students, a great testament to wonderful work by the staff of Sidney Elementary.
During our 2nd year visit to Kelset Elementary, a lot of the students remembered us from last year. We utilized games and challenges on nearby trails to help the returning students tackle new skills and the school’s open grass field to help the 1st year riders build confidence. The teachers were also really helpful at Kelset!
Thank you everyone for your great support of the iRide program.
Find out when the next iRide event is taking place in your community by visiting our events page here. Cycling BC’s iRide program is also currently selling a number of our in-school rental bikes. Parents can learn more here.
To become an iRide newsletter recipient and stay up-to-date on all future iRide events in your area, please go here.
If you’re a fan of Cycling BC’s iRide program, check us out on Twitter, Instagram, or Donate to support our programs in your area. To learn more about booking a future event, please contact us at iRide@cyclingbc.net or 1-604-BC-iRide.
