By Amanda Lalonde, MPH
As a Greeley native who regularly rides her bike, for either
transportation, exercise, or leisure, I have learned a few things along my
journey.
- First, bicycling is a community.
The friendly hellos, waves, and smiles from other riders, walkers, runners, and other
strangers connect us. Even though we may never know each other’s names, knowing
we are sharing a common interest creates a unique bond.
- Second, people are kind. I cannot
count the number of times someone stopped to help me fix a flat tire or dodged
a puddle to avoid splashing me on a soggy day.
- Lastly, bicycling welcomes all.
Over the years, between evolving technology and opportunities in Weld County -
no matter who you are, your ability or fitness level - if you are open to
experiencing bicycling, the resources, people, and places are available for you
to enjoy an adventure.
The optimist in me envisions the bicycling community growing
within Weld County; thus allowing us to celebrate our humanness together. It is a unique way we can safely reveal our individual
identities through a common interest. Weld County represents a rich collection
of people and I believe Bike to Work Day is a day we unite and celebrate. Some people
bike, some walk, some scoot, some roll, some head to work, some to school, and some
join in for the exercise, breakfast, and/or comradery. Whatever the reason, Bike
to Work Day is more about coming together to celebrate our humanity and
unifying us as a community, with the added benefit of raising awareness of
active transportation, safety, and embracing mutual respect of cars and
cyclists sharing the road.
This year, I invite you to dust off the bicycle or put on
your sneakers and join us in celebrating our humanity in Greeley, Evans and
Windsor on Bike to Work Day. This year we unite on Wednesday, June 26, 2019, with breakfast stations beginning about 6:30a
and afternoon pit stops at various businesses throughout the day. For more information regarding Bike to Work
Day, visit GreeleyBikes.com
Need help preparing for the ride? REI provides some great learning opportunities related to Bike maintenance.