WINNIPEG — The first-of-its-kind Wheel Jam is bringing together cyclists and wheelchair users this weekend.
The event takes a page from Bike Jam, where upwards of 3,000 people take part in a musical group ride on Winnipeg streets.
“Bike Jam is a fun way for people to try cycling as a way of getting around the city but the 9 p.m. start times run too late for young families,” said Kreesta Doucette, event co-organizer.
“The idea of the Fam Jam, an inclusive wheel jam for people of all ages and abilities was born.”
On Sunday, cyclists and wheelchair users will connect in the city’s West Broadway and Wolseley neighbourhoods along a route audited for accessibility by the Independent Living Resource Centre.
“The idea is to bring a lot of people together on Sunday to have a ride that will be fun and show families how to do things without needing to rely on a car all the time. We’d love to see events like this in other neighbourhoods across the city,” Doucette added.
Participants will meet at Mulvey School, 750 Wolseley Avenue, at 1:30 p.m. Aside from the ride itself, there will be a bike rodeo featuring a bike safety workshop, obstacle course, and wheel decorating. Onsite basic bike repairs by Natural Cycleworks will also be available. At 2:30 p.m., everyone will wheel down the Wolseley-Wellington loop with a snack break at Omand’s Creek park including free ice cream sandwiches or fruit for the first 100 kids. The event is free and will take place rain or shine with all wheels welcome.
WHAT: Bike Jam
WHERE: Mulvey School, 750 Wolseley Avenue
WHEN: Sunday, June 10, 1:30 p.m. Ride begins at 2:30 p.m.
WHY: To connect cyclists, wheelchair users and families
