Young cyclists learn to ride smart at Shakespeare bike education day

Perth County OPP Const. Margaret Geurts, left, works with Sophie Hofer during the Ride Smart Cycle Education Program in Shakespeare on Monday. Hofer is completing her fourth year at Georgian College and hopes to pursue a career in policing. Gary West photo

By Gary West

Young cyclists put their bike-handling skills to the test in Shakespeare on Monday as the Perth County OPP hosted its Ride Smart Cycle Education Program.

The youth mentoring and crime-prevention program aims to engage young people in local communities while teaching practical, lifelong skills focused on safe cycling.

Designed for students of all cycling abilities, the interactive program gives participants an opportunity to develop their skills and confidence while learning how to safely control their bikes in different situations.

Shakespeare was the third local stop for the program, following events in Listowel and Milverton last week.

Despite rain forcing some of Monday's activities under the Shakespeare Athletic Association pavilion, 11 young cyclists participated in the Perth East-sponsored program.