PONDERAY — Children and families are invited to bring their bikes and helmets to the annual Ponderay Bike Rodeo on July 25 at McNearney Park, where participants can practice their cycling skills and learn about bike safety. 

At the bike rodeo, one free bike will be raffled off, and free helmets will be distributed while supplies last. First responders will be available to fit helmets for riders. 

The city launched the event following a recommendation from Lake Pend Oreille School District Safe Routes to School Coordinator, Erin Billings. 

After a successful first bike rodeo, Ponderay has hosted one annually.

“Any kind of activity we can provide that gets them out of the house and moving is always a positive thing," said KayLeigh Miller, Ponderay Planning Director and Project Manager. 

City officials will also share information with the community about current projects and activities. 

Small courses and activities will be available for children to complete, each of them emphasizing a different safety aspect. 

Some courses also allow children to practice additional bike control techniques. 

The slow race, in which the winner is the last rider to cross the finish line without falling over, helps riders develop their balance and bike-handling skills. 

With a transportation alternatives grant underway, the city plans to extend bike paths along McNearney Road north to the Field of Dreams facility by next year, providing more connections between McNearney Park and facilities. 

Miller said as work continues for trail projects and bicycle transportation improves in the area, the bike rodeo teaches valuable lessons. 

“It’s super important for the young people to be safe,” said Miller, "Anything we can do to help promote that, I think is fantastic.”