National Bike Week 2016 took place from Saturday 11th to Sunday 19th June, with bike related events taking place right around the country.
Waterford was no different and in fact, we have a very strong tradition where Bike Week is concerned. In all there were thirty seven events taking place right across Waterford City and County over the course of the week to suit all ages and fitness levels involving 32 groups and 3856 participants. The week is funded by the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport targeting those new or returning to cycling or those who just want to enjoy a leisurely spin with friends and family
Waterford City Events – Out of the thirty seven events nine were open to the public, with the first event kicking off on Sunday 12th June with the Dawn Cycle. Fifteen eager and enthusiastic cyclists gathered in the RSC as we took a leisurely spin along the newly developed Green Route to Tramore. When we reached Tramore participants were given a well earned light breakfast provided by T-Bay Surf Club who opened up specifically to cater for this event. On Wednesday 15th June, we had our National Lunch Time Cycle with nearly forty participants using the new bike lanes along Waterford Quays as we completed an 8km cycle to Grannagh and back to the Munster Bar for a light lunch. On Friday 17th June the RSC was a hive of activity as over four hundred children took part in our annual Cycling Festival which was run by South East Cycles. Schools who took part in the Safe Cycling programme earlier in the year were invited to take part and put their newly learned skills into use as they took on fun obstacle courses and activities.
Waterford County Events – In total, twenty five events took place in the county involving 2317 participants from schools, adult education centres, childcare centres and youth groups. WSP assisted groups with events such as bike picnics on the beach, greenway cycle events, cycle tours, bike maintenance courses and much, much more. We also organised a number of public events in conjunction with Waterford City & County Council; On Wednesday 15th June, eighteen participants took part in a lunch time cycle in Dungarvan. On Sunday 19th June, the well established Dawn Cycle saw sixty five participants enjoy fantastic views along the Dungarvan coastline. The15km and 25km routes provided an opportunity for cyclists of all abilities to enjoy near car free roads, ending with a well deserved breakfast in Sip and Surf.
Well done to all those who organised events around Waterford City and County and to all those who took part
in what was an excellent week. Roll on next year!!
Article Modified: December 14, 2018 11:43 am
