The 2021 Go By Bike Week is coming up between May 31 and June 6 this year, with British Columbians encouraged to ride their bikes as much as possible that week.

Formerly called ‘Bike to Work Week’, In the Elk Valley, those who register and log their cycling adventures can go into the running for local prizes.

In Fernie (and Sparwood), locals can go into the draw just by signing up, the most km as a team, most km as an individual, a random draw for anyone who logs a ride every day of the seven-day challenge, draws for social media posting, the longest ride, largest team and more.

Both Fernie and Sparwood have coordinators this year, and Fernie coordinator Danielle Weiss said that all the communities in the valley were relatively flat and easy to cycle, meaning there was little stopping eager riders getting out there.

“Choosing to go by bike to the store or school is extremely feasible,” she said.

“The choice may add a couple extra minutes to your activity, but the benefits include health – both physical and mental.

“A 2019 Harvard concluded that specifically 20 mins outdoors and in nature can reduce stress levels. Beyond health benefits, being on your bike lends itself to more social interactions and we all know how much we need more of that these days. Further, streets filled with bikes are quieter and have better air quality than the alternative.”

Local prizes in Fernie and Sparwood are a mix of donated items and thanks to grants from the B.C. Gov.

Sign up for GoByBike week at gobybikebc.ca, register your location and come May 31, get riding your bike!

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