RCMP Bike Rodeo

Chris Lestus say the annual the Strathcona County RCMP and Enforcement Services Bike Rodeo was in the perfect location for his family.

"We saw the billboard out front so we just cycled over here from our home," said the Sherwood Park dad, as he was joined by daughter, Lilly, and son, Lincoln, for the short ride to the event from their home just east of the Strathcona Athletic Park on Saturday, May 11.

"It's a good way for our kids to brush up on everything related to cycling," said Lestus, adding they were first-time attendees at the popular event.

"We're a biking family so this is important to us. It's also been a lot of fun."

Lestus said Lilly and Lincoln had their bikes and helmetschecked at the Mud, Sweat and Gears booth, took a few trips around the bicycle obstacle course and enjoyed the inflatable slide during their two-hour visit to the Bike Rodeo.

Jennifer Ferguson was watching her son, Lincoln, navigate around the obstacle course inside the outdoor hockey rink when she was asked why they were at the event. 

"Lincoln knows quite a bit about bike safety but this is a good way to sharpen his skills.”

Ferguson added, "We also enjoyed a hot dog and Lincoln took in the big bump slide."

The mother and son team spent about two hours in total at the Bike Rodeo.

Another family making their first visit to the park for the annual May event spent time checking out one of Strathcona County Enforcement Services’ quad vehicles on display.

"Our kids brought their bikes from home. It's been fun. It's a good community event," said Steve Bambrick, joined by wife, Nicole Mudryk, and children, Maine, and Claire.

"We found out about it online at the Strathcona County website."

Strathcona County Peace Officer Steve Schmidt said he's been at the event for the past three years and he always looks forward to it.

"It's nice to interact with the public and see the kids enjoying themselves. I like working these events."

There were also two canine unit demonstrations during the Bike Road along with a free BBQ provided by Enbridge.

Booths on display included Citizens on Patrol, Crime Watch, Victim Services, M.A.D.D,, Strathcona County Emergency Services and Edmonton Search and Rescue.