Cycling enthusiast Barry Jones is back promoting biking skills in the territory.
A new year of Mr. Jones’ “Learn to Cycle” programme began on Sunday at the Festival Village Grounds in Road Town, where youngsters including Toby and Talia Menezes were able to get their bikes refitted and ready to ride around the unpaved lot.
Mr. Jones first started the educational programme two years ago to promote healthy hobbies for kids.
“So far, it has been a success,” he said. “Everyone who has come to the programme has gone away riding, at least after the second session if not the first.”
He took particular pride in the students’ participation in the Queen’s Baton Relay last year.
He said at least 17 students took part in the programme last year, and many have been excited for its return.
“I’m now giving back to the sport in the way I’ve always wanted to,” he said.
Mr. Jones added that he plans to soon start working with schools in the territory to coordinate cycling championship games for students.
Classes take place on Sundays, beginning at 2 p.m. for ages 4 and under. Ages 5 to 7 begin at 2:50 p.m., and ages 8 and up start at 3:40 p.m.
More experienced riders can also participate in a supervised ride around at 4:30 p.m., which reinforces road safety rules among other tips and tricks.
The session is $20 and comes with a free bike fitting by Mr. Jones, who recently got certified as a Union Cycliste Internationale level one coach and level one mechanic. While he currently offers mobile repair services, Mr. Jones said he hopes to soon open a kiosk.
Helmets are mandatory, while gloves, kneepads and elbow pads are optional. Call 547-8306 for more information.