What a Deal for Kids 15 and Under: Bring an Adult, Get a Free Ride at Providence Bridge Pedal
July 27, 2009
WHAT: The 14th annual Providence Bridge Pedal and Bridge Stride, presented by The Oregonian, is offering children 15 and younger free admission to the event’s six-bridge ride or Providence Stride– when accompanied by an adult.
WHEN: Providence Bridge Pedal Health and Wellness Expo at Oregon Square Saturday, Aug. 8
Providence Bridge Pedal and Providence Bridge Stride Sunday, Aug. 9
DETAILS: Providence wants to give families a break. For the first time in the 14-year history of Providence Bridge Pedal, children 15 and under can ride for free.
“Providence Bridge Pedal is such an amazing community event,” said Dave Underriner, chief executive for Providence’s Portland Service Area. “We know the economic downturn is forcing families to make choices about how they spend their money. Providence wanted to make sure the thousands of families who take part in this event each year still have that opportunity.”
Providence Bridge Pedal is the second largest community bicycle ride in the country and the third largest in the world. For those who prefer to walk, Providence Bridge Stride offers a five-mile alternative that includes the Fremont and Steel bridges.
Highlights this year:
The six-bridge ride and stride are free to children ages 15 and younger when accompanied by an adult. Children must register for the event. This ride starts later in the morning to ensure “fast” cyclists and families do not merge enroute.
An 11-bridge, 37-mile ride for serious cyclists. This ride starts early and away from downtown with a police-escorted ride over the Fremont Bridge.
Party in the Park! This year’s Wellness Expo will be outdoors in Oregon Square. Stop by to pick up your event bib, gather healthy-living tips, see the latest in biking gear and enter drawings.
Going green: cyclists are encouraged to bring their own water bottles. There will be plenty of cold, fresh water to refill water bottles along the route.
Once again this year, a portion of Providence Bridge Pedal proceeds will boost Providence Heart and Vascular Institute’s efforts to save the lives of people suffering heart attacks or other cardiac events. Providence Heart and Vascular Institute will use its portion of the proceeds to buy automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and donate them to selected public places in the community, such as stores, schools and libraries. An AED is a portable device used to restore normal heart rhythm to people experiencing cardiac arrest.
The Events:
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 8
Providence Bridge Pedal Health and Wellness Expo (free)
Oregon Square – Northeast Holladay Street and Seventh Avenue
It’s the best way to ensure a smooth start Sunday morning. Pick up your registration materials at the Health and Wellness Expo on Saturday and head straight for the start line on Sunday. The expo also features activities for children, games, contests, and the latest in bicycle and fitness information.
Sunday, Aug. 9
Providence Bridge Pedal and Providence Bridge Stride
(registration required)
Bicyclists circle the city for an exhilarating ride over Portland’s bridges. This year’s most challenging ride takes seasoned cyclists over bridges 11 times. The 11-bridge ride is 37 miles long. Shorter options – 24 and 14-mile rides also are available. All routes cross the top decks of the Fremont and Marquam bridges. Those who enjoy crossing the bridges on foot can take part in the five-mile Providence Bridge Stride.
11-bridge ride – 37 miles
Start time/location: 7 a.m. to 7:30 a.m.
North Vancouver Avenue and Cook Street
Fee: $35 ($45 day of event)
Not recommended for young children
Eight-bridge ride – 24 miles
Start time/location: 6:30 a.m. to 7:15 a.m.
Southwest Naito Parkway and Southwest Pine Street
Fee: $25 ($40 day of event)
Six-bridge ride – 14 miles
Start time/location: 7:15 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.
Southwest Naito Parkway and Southwest Pine Street
Fee: $20 ($35 day of event) Free for children 15 and under
Bridge Stride – 5 miles
Start time/location: 8:30 a.m.
Southwest Naito Parkway and Southwest Pine Street
Fee: $15 adults ($20 day of event)
$10 seniors ($15 day of event)
Free for children 15 and under
