Haahuupayak School and the Port Alberni RCMP Aboriginal Policing Unit are hosting a Bike Roadeo at the school on Oct. 3.
The event was organized in response to concerns raised about bicycle safety on the Tseshaht reserve, according to Haahuupayak principal Gio Musatto.
Constable Daniel Engel has spearheaded the initiative.
“He has noticed that many kids are riding bikes and not using signals or wearing helmets,” Musatto said. “His goal is to promote safety, have fun and provide education for kids.”
Prior to setting a date, Engel asked Haahuupayak students if they would be interested. Musatto said about 70 kids expressed interest, but of that number, only about 50 actually have bicycles. Moving beyond the roadeo, organizers hope to provide helmets, and even bicycles, for any child who does not have one.
“We’re looking to local businesses or local citizens. We’re seeing if the RCMP has any reclaimed bikes that can be fixed up. If you have a helmet you’re not using, we can use it,” he said.
Canadian Tire has already stepped forward with sponsorship and other businesses are welcomed to join in to make this a memorable event.
The roadeo will take place at 3 p.m., beginning with a safety presentation and followed by a skills course and prizes. Parents are invited to take part.
“We’re hoping to make this an annual event,” said Const. Mike Bigg, adding that the focus would be on safety and individual skills, rather than on riding conditions they may encounter on the reserve. “We’re not focusing on specific roads.”
If you have a bicycle or a helmet to donate, contact Haahuupayak School at 250-724-5542. For those who would like to make a cash donation, a Bike Rodeo account has been set up at the Tsahaheh branch of the Bank of Montreal. Donations can be made at the school.
