Bicycles are nothing new to Wichita Falls. Being host to the nation’s largest single day 100-mile ride, Wichita Falls sees more bikes annually than many cities much larger. Even still, it is not officially considered a “bike friendly community” by the League of American Bicyclists.
Local organizations such as the Bike Friendly Action Committee, chaired by Becky Raeke and Kathryn Hager, are doing their part to ensure that this changes. “A city must meet certain criteria to get a League of American Bicyclists membership,” Raeke informed. That criteria includes accessibility, safe riding conditions, and community outreach. The bike trail that extends around the city is a massive benefit to local bikers. Now Raeke and Hager plan on adding the safety and community outreach into the equation.
On March 9, the Bike Friendly Action Committee is having their first event of 2019 titled Ride & Seek. The family friendly affair will take place at Lake Wichita with the start point being at Murphy’s Mountain. There will be an on-bike scavenger hunt (that’s the seek part) and riders will get to learn more about the Lake Wichita area. Other activities will include a mini Frisbee gold tournament and a bike rodeo.
Hotter N’ Hell 100 representatives and The Endurance House will be on hand to help with safety training and assisting where needed. This is a family friendly event from 10am until noon that is free to anyone that would like to come. Bikes will not be provided, but everyone is encouraged to bring their own.
The Bike Friendly Acton Committee has another event planned for downtown on May 3rd. Find them on Facebook for more details about this event.
