Shakespeare Bike Rodeo promotes cycling safety for local youth

A total of 52 young cyclists participated in the annual Shakespeare Bike Rodeo on Saturday. Every rider received a prize courtesy of the Shakespeare Optimist Club and Shakespeare Opti-Mrs. Gary West photo

By Gary West

More than 50 young cyclists took part in the annual Shakespeare Optimist Club Bike Rodeo on Saturday, learning valuable safety lessons while enjoying an afternoon of fun, prizes and a community barbecue.

Held beside the Optimist Hall parking lot and in the Shakespeare Park pavilion, the event is organized each year by the Shakespeare Optimist Club and Shakespeare Opti-Mrs.

Bike Rodeo chair Greg Ankenmann said he continues to be impressed by the number of children and families who attend the event each year.

"The club's goal has always been to help keep children safe when riding their bikes, especially when travelling to and from school," Ankenmann said.

Before tackling the obstacle course set up in the pavilion, participants registered and received instructions on safe cycling practices.

This year's event also featured assistance from Perth County OPP constables Margaret Geurts and Brandon Cook, who spoke with participants about bicycle safety and the rules of the road. Riders also received safety information and complimentary sunglasses courtesy of the OPP.

Following the rodeo, participants were entered into prize draws that included three new bicycles, Moo's Ice Cream gift certificates and a variety of prizes donated by the Shakespeare Opti-Mrs.

Organizers reported a total of 52 young cyclists took part in the event, and every participant received a prize.