With a total of more than 80 participants in three events, the Ghisallo Cycling Initiative led Bike Clubs for local YMCA groups this summer at two locations: Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park and Krieg Fields in Central Austin.

At Krieg Fields, the Ghisallo staff, volunteers, and YMCA volunteers led the students from the baseball fields on S. Pleasant Valley Rd. to Doug Sahm Hill near the Palmer Events Center, a 7.5-mile round trip. At Walnut Creek students enjoyed the seemingly endless, winding trails that cut through thick stands of trees and over hills.

At each location, some basic skills were taught: a 5-step helmet clinic, stopping, using hand signals to signal turning and stopping, and riding as a group in the parking lot.

All students were able to enjoy the sun and sights while practicing the skills they learned. Beginner riders stayed behind with instructors to learn the basics of riding on strider bikes, while riders who were well acquainted with bicycles joined intermediate riders experiencing their first bike rides of this length.

Ghisallo’s staff really enjoyed riding with students and staff so eager to have fun!