-Watch video below-
(Photos © J. Maus)
This morning, despite a steady stream of rain, hundreds of Abernethy Elementary School kids took part in a new spin on the the traditional walk-a-thon fundraiser; they did a bike-a-thon.
Dubbed the Tour de Ladd, organizers of the event closed a loop of streets adjacent to the Southeast Portland school (hence the name) so the kids could pedal around the neighborhood and enjoy the blooming roses and carfree streets.
Volunteer Mia Birk has two kids at the school and she helped organize the event. Birk said over 80% of the kids (350 kids total) participated and she and other volunteers outfitted all of them with helmets (provided by Legacy Hospital).
The event also had a lot of support from community businesses and organizations including River City Bicycles, Clever Cycles, Seven Corners, A Better Cycle, Bike Gallery, Lakeside Cycles, the Bicycle Transportation Alliance and Legacy Emanuel Hospital.
Officers Pickett and Park from
the SE Bike Patrol led the kids out on
their first lap.
City Commissioner Nick Fish stopped by the event on his way to City Hall and rode with the kids for a few laps. It was great to see the newest member of City Council showing support and participating in a bike event.
Hear interviews with Mia Birk, Commissioner Fish, and more in the video report below. You can also view more images in the Tour de Ladd photo gallery: