Up North: Bike Rodeo provides safety tips and exercise for Duluth youth

Up North: Bike Rodeo provides safety tips and exercise for Duluth youth

Up North: Bike Rodeo provides safety tips and exercise for Duluth youth

Duluth has proven to be a city for bikers time and time again. Whether it’s on a trail or in a bike lane, you’re bound to see someone on two wheels.

Congdon Park Elementary School in Duluth held their annual bike rodeo last week, getting all ages of riders on their bikes, and more importantly, getting out into the fresh air.

“This has been a great community event,” said Katie Benziger of the Congdon Park PTA. “It just brings a lot of our families together towards the end of the year. It’s outdoors, so it was a good event to have when we were during the pandemic and people could be outside and still be together. I think it just is a great educational event for kids to learn about pedestrian bike safety.”

Congdon uses the Minnesota Bike Alliance’s “Walk, Bike, Fun” program to teach kids how to ride bikes safely. For some, riding safely is a new concept to them, but for the Schu’s, it’s second nature.

“We live pretty close by,” said Matthew Schu. “We love walking and biking to school whenever we can. It’s a great opportunity for the kids to come out and play. My son just got a new bike, so it’s a good chance for him to test it out and see his friends biking as well and just support the community. We really appreciate the biking community in Duluth generally.”

The rodeo provided excitement for all, regardless of if it was just the biking around or staying around for some snacks.

“I can have gears that I can switch if I need to switch them, and I just like biking and I like that there’s food,” said 11 year old Isabelle.

At the end of the day though, biking is a great way to get around, a way to keep active, and sets the community up for success.