Orange County Bicycle Club helps make Florida Bicycle Rodeo a success

FLORIDA — Local residents representing the Orange County Bicycle Club (OCBC) joined police officers at June 7 "bicycle rodeo" at Golden Hill Elementary school in Florida, demonstrating to children the importance of bike safety skills.

"The rodeo was coordinated by the Florida School district PTA, and they do a wonderful job," said Bill Stelz of Monroe, OCBC's spokesperson. "It’s well-organized, and they are gracious hosts. This rodeo has been going on for about 12 years, on a bi-annual basis, and OCBC has been a part of it from the very inception."

Bicycle club members inspected each bicycle and handled minor repairs - such as handlebar and seat adjustments, tire pressure checks, oiling chains and adjusting helmets - before police officers led them through an obstacle course.

"Safety is our highest priority," said Stelz. "It was an honor to assist the Florida School District PTA in this important event. Thanks to donated bike supplies from Joe’s Fix It in Goshen and the repair skills of our OCBC members, there are a lot more safe bicycles riding around town today. It provides our members peace of mind knowing the bikes are in proper working order, and we loved the smiles on the kids’ faces as we added a bell or some handlebar streamers."

With nearly 300 members, OCBC advocates cycling as a key part of a healthy lifestyle.

To join or learn more, visit: www.ocbicycleclub.org.

- Nancy Kriz