Saturday June 8th marks the first Take A Kid Mountain Biking Day of 2019, and we’re thrilled to have clubs hosting events all across Canada. Whether you’re participating in a club-organised event, or not, it’s a great day to get out and have a great time on trails.
TAKMBD first started in 2002, and since then it’s grown to include a Spring and Fall date and is held in a variety of countries. Last year in Canada, more than 3,500 people took part in the fun, and we’re hoping you’ll help us make an even bigger impact in 2019.
Check with your local club to see if they’re hosting a special event to celebrate TAKMBD. Clubs are eligible for promotion and swag packages that are made possible through support of MEC, Parks Canada, Sprockids, Clif Bar, Cannondale, and Rack Attack. If you’re club hasn’t planned anything, now’s a great time to get them thinking about hosting an event for the fall date; Oct 5, 2019.
No matter how you choose to spend your time this weekend, we hope it includes two-wheeled fun on trails. We’ve got a few tips to help make the most of the day, and any other day you ride bikes.
IMBA Canada’s Rules of the Trail for Young Riders
1. Bike where it’s allowed: Not all trails allow bike riding – some are just for walking or other activities. Find out whether mountain biking is okay before you ride.
2. Be a Ninja: Be a mountain bike ninja, so careful that no signs are left behind after you ride. That means avoiding riding wet, muddy trails, and never leaving your trash behind.
3. Stay in Control: Don’t ride too fast or too crazy – you must always be able to slow down or come to a stop so you don’t frighten anyone on the trail.
4. Move Over: Be friendly and polite to everyone you meet. Remember that people on bikes should move out of the way for hikers and horseback riders. If you’re riding a bike down a hill and someone else is pedalling up, be sure to give them plenty of room.
5. Keep Furry Friends Happy: Give animals enough room and time to get adjusted to you. Use special care and follow directions while passing horseback riders.
6. Plan Ahead: Know where you’re going – or bring a map. Ride with an experienced adult when visiting a new area. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear.