Bike For Your Life

Sunday, August 9, 2009

It’s a 10 for the Bike For Your Life –

Vancouver Island Society!  

To celebrate our 10th anniversary of the ride we have designed a special edition "pro-fit" cycling jersey which will be available in limited supply at a cost of $65.00 paid by cash or cheque. To see samples or place an order for this jersey by deadline of 31 May 2009 visit or contact Island Cycle in Parksville, BC. (1-877-348-0647 or 250-248-0647)  Jersey sizing is full range for both men and women.

This event, held for the first time, in our area, in 1999, was established to promote good health and a cleaner environment through cycling. We have organized a variety of routes to cater to the cycling needs of novice and experienced cyclists. Averaging over 400 participants per year, our events have attracted individuals ranging in age from the very young to over 80. The goals of the Bike For Your Life Committee are to present a fun day of non-competitive activity for both the individual and families and to encourage and promote cycling as a vital part of everyday life.  A portion of each registration fee is donated to the District #69 Stroke Recovery Association and many stroke survivors help with the running of the event.

This year, there are 15, 35, 50, 70 and 100 km scenic routes all starting from and ending at the Parksville Community Centre. These routes travel through Parksville and Qualicum Beach and rural areas up and down the mid-island. All routes are well marked, directions are clear, and marshals are located at strategic locations. Course marshals will ride along each route to assist riders and provide directional information, as necessary. The 100 km route, known as the Jim Ryan Memorial Route, has been established to honour Jim Ryan, a local rider, who tragically passed away in a biking accident in the fall of 2007.

Refreshment stations are located along each route; refreshments are also available after the ride.  Prizes will be drawn and awarded, throughout the day, as well as at the conclusion of the event. Riders who are 18 years of age or younger will also receive a medal upon completion of their ride.

Helmets are mandatory and all participants are expected to obey all traffic safety laws. 

 Contact bike4yourlife@hotmail.com for more information on registration and fees (18 years of age and under, family, adult).

Route Information

All five Bike For Your Life routes - 15, 35, 50, 70 and 100 km - are designed to provide a fun and safe cycling experience for riders of all ages and abilities. Safety is the major consideration for all five routes. All routes will be well marked; will have safety marshals, at key points, to point riders in the right direction and rest stations where water/refreshments and bathroom facilities will be available. Maps and written directions will be available on site for those who require them.  All routes begin and end at the Parksville Community Centre back parking lot.

Cyclists are reminded that they must wear an approved bicycle helmet. All Bike For Your Life participants are expected to obey traffic safety laws, at all times. The Bike For Your Life Committee suggests that participants wear light-coloured clothing to improve their visibility to vehicles and to have their bicycles recently serviced to ensure a safer and more enjoyable ride.   

** Upon completion of the ride, all participants MUST check in with the Registration Desk so that the Registrar knows that they are back and safe. Riders 18 years of age or younger will receive a Bike For Your Life medal upon completion of their ride.

Click here for the Registration form