Record numbers rise to cycling challenge

Malcolm Curtis, Times Colonist Published: Monday, May 29, 2006 Expect heavier than usual congestion on the Galloping Goose this week. More than 6,000 cyclists -- some of them first-timers -- will be pedalling to their jobs as the 12th annual Bike to Work Week starts today. The Goose, a trail connecting Sooke to downtown Victoria, is already one of the most heavily travelled routes for cyclists in the region. Organizers warn it will be even busier with a record 525 teams registered for the biking event, designed to encourage more people to pedal to their jobs. Environment Minister Barry Penner will be among the politicians getting involved early today -- Victoria Mayor Alan Lowe and Saanich Mayor Frank Leonard have also promised to take part. Penner is scheduled to cycle to a "celebration station" at the north end of the Selkirk Trestle, off the Goose trail. Penner has announced his ministry will allow staff to cycle between offices to meetings or other assignments instead of using government cars. Employees will be able to use their own bikes or one of two the ministry has recently purchased. It's a small step but "we're hoping other ministries will follow the same policy," said Stephanie Johnson, Bike to Work Week co-ordinator. Sponsors will be providing coffee, fruit and bagels at the station, Johnson said. Bike mechanics will be on hand to look over bikes and offer tips to improve their operation. Similar stations will be set up at 14 other locations throughout the week. Saanich municipal hall, the University of Victoria, Royal Roads University and Victoria General Hospital are among the sites. The range of events includes a commuter race Tuesday between a cyclist and motorist. A wrap-up barbecue will be held on Friday afternoon near the Switch Bridge (where the Galloping Goose passes over Douglas Street in Saanich). The week-long event is organized by the Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society, a non-profit group with a budget of $80,000. Funded with grants from the province, municipal governments and corporate sponsors, the society offers one-day skills courses to encourage new cyclists. © Times Colonist (Victoria) 2006