Our latest and largest ever ride took place at Reading Cycle Festival on Saturday 13th September. We were delighted to have over 100 riders join us on a circular ride through the centre of town. The festival itself had a brilliant atmosphere, with live music and incredibly impressive stunt riding shows taking place throughout the day.
All sorts of cycles were to be seen, from the very small (balance bikes) to the very tall (penny farthings) to the very wide (cargo trikes that can transport two fully grown adults in great style). The latter were brought over by Cycling Without Age from Wallingford, a volunteer organisation that exists to bring the joy of being out on a bike to those who can no longer ride one themselves.
We were delighted that several of the former and the latter joined our ride. We firmly believe that streets that are designed to be safe for young cyclists are good for everyone. By the smiles on everyone’s faces during the ride I think we were all of one mind on that.
On that note, our friends at Reading Cycle Campaign (also present at the festival) also work to prove that there is demand for better cycling facilities in Reading. Please do consider signing up for membership of RCC if you are also of a similar mind.
The festival was sponsored by Avanti Cycling, who run the Bikeability training in schools. The central area was given to a series of obstacle on which children could practice their bike control. This is always a highlight for my Mr 9 and Mr 6, who love riding the ramps and seesaws. I was delighted to hear that one of the courses for younger children will be finding a home at Reading Bike Hub in the center of town, so if you missed out at the festival (or if you tried it and loved it) do head on down to give it a whirl.
To close the event a raffle was drawn. This was sponsored by AW cycles on Henley Road, with first prize being a £500 bike voucher and all proceeds going towards Reading Refugee Support Group.
If you missed out on the ride (or if you tried it and loved it) then please do join us for our Halloween themed ride on Sunday 25th October, starting at 1pm from Thames Lido.
