As summer approaches, the number of workers choosing the friendliest commuting vehicle invented multiplies. Water-cooler chat turns from TV shows to first-hand experiences on the morning bicycle commute.
Perhaps no single initiative contributes more new cycle commuters internationally than Bike to Work Week, and with less than five weeks until the May 31–June 6 event in Victoria, organizers are getting ready to roll.
Yesterday, I spoke by phone with executive director Christina Southern from a pre-event at the Bay Centre Downtown, where the red carpet was literally rolled out for Victoria bicycle commuters, along with free parking, mechanical tune-ups and refreshments.
Southern is confident that this year’s event is “right on track to exceed participation from previous years,” with over 200 teams registered to date. Last year a total of 7,200 riders took part.
Team leaders encourage employees to ride to work, signing up as many colleagues as possible. Prizes are awarded based on the percentage of company workers that rise to the challenge. There are also random draws at “celebration stations” along the route.
“Prizes this year include everything, up to the kitchen sink,” Southern quipped, explaining that one company has donated a deluxe faucet to a prize pool (excuse the pun) estimated at $20,000.
The greater reward however is the plain joy of riding a bike, with health benefits to you, your city and our home planet.
Bike to Work Week is a great chance to join co-workers and bicycle commuters at large demonstrating people power at its best. Why not sign up today?
Victoria Bike to Work Week | Vancouver Bike to Work Week | BikeToWorkWeek.org | Bikeweek UK | Carfree Day | Gas Free Commute | League of American Bicyclists Bike Month | VeloWeb Commuting
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