The Windsor-Essex Bike Community (WEBC) was happy with the turnout for their first youth session last week.
WEBC is offering a free mountain bike riding club for youth throughout the summer at the Libro Centre’s cycling trails. The first session was last Wednesday night and they will continue every other Wednesday until October starting at 6 p.m., the next session being July 17.
The sessions are being sponsored by Essex Powerlines and the Town of Amherstburg.
James Braakman, one of the directors with WEBC, said it is a way for younger people to get out and enjoy the trails.
“As long as you have a mountain bike or a bike in working order, you are welcome to come out,” said Braakman.
Braakman pointed out Flow Café and Bikes will bring out “demo bikes” for young people to try out. They held a similar project as a pilot last year which drew about 45 youth with a strong turnout coming out last Wednesday. Braakman stated they expected about 20-40 youth last week
“I think it’s a thing that’s going to grow over time,” he said.
The youth were split into two groups – beginner and experienced – and volunteers with WEBC took them through various parts of the cycling trails. The second phase of the trails is open, he said, though an official celebration will be held this Saturday at the Libro Centre. There is a third and final phase that WEBC wants to construct in the coming months with the use of donations and sponsorships.
“We teach and do group rides according to ability and skill to make sure everyone is safe,” said Braakman.
Braakman added they believe it is a great way for kids to be active and to get off of their phones.
For more information on the Windsor-Essex Bike Community, visit www.webcride.com.
WEBC introduces new youth riding club
By Ron Giofu
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