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Terrace Bike Rodeo ramps up community spirit

Community Bike Rodeo event ‘nothing short of a success’
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Police officer kneeling to talk to child on a bike about bike safety. (Submitted/Terrace RCMP)

The Terrace Emergency Services Bike Rodeo was nothing short of a success after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

That’s according to Terrace RCMP Cst. Kelly Cates, who attended the weekend event along with other officers and local emergency workers.

Around 120 kids attended along with families and friends who came in droves to the Skeena Mall Parking lot where the Rodeo was in full swing.

“It was an amazing turnout. Great response from the emergency service workers coming out to volunteer and great community support,” Cates said.

“There was a lot of excitement on the part of families just being able to get back out and participate. There were lots of smiles all around.”

Helmets were checked for a proper fit by the Northern Brain Injury Association where many kids received new helmets.

Bike inspections and repairs were conducted by a team of bike mechanics from the local Fix Cyclery and Cafe to ensure a safe ride.

Children made their way through a variety of stations where bikes were decorated, riding skills were taught, all while interacting with many emergency service providers.

Cates said that along with teaching kids the ins and outs of bike safety, the event helps them build a positive relationship with people in uniform.

She said that also ties in with outreach programs like the ongoing ‘positive ticket’ campaign.

“It’s about them seeing that it’s okay to stop and chat, and have a positive interaction with police, and seeing that we’re regular people as well.”

Youth who are “caught” doing positive things by RCMP this summer may receive a positive ticket. The tickets will be redeemable at one of the community sponsor locations for a prize.

READ MORE: Terrace RCMP issues “positive tickets” to youth

READ MORE: Emergency Services Bike Rodeo just around the corner