Published: May 15, 2008 03:45 pm            

Bike to Work Day pushes off Friday

Stillwater Medical Center is collaborating with Stillwater National Bank and Cooper’s Bicycle Center to promote the second annual Bike to Work Day on Friday.

“We had a great response last year,” said Stephanie Brown, community wellness coordinator for the medical center. “Over 100 riders signed up.

“We are hoping to beat that number this year.”

Stillwater Mayor Roger McMillian declared May as Bike Month to encourage Stillwater residents to understand the importance of bicycle safety in the community, according to the monthly newsletter of the Red Dirt Pedalers Bicycle Club.

Bicycling to work allows participants to save money by not having to fill up their gas tank before work. Susan Walker, editor-in-chief of the Red Dirt Pedalers newsletter, said one of the main benefits of the event is exercise.

“A big plus is the participants don’t need to go to the gym because they already did their workout,” Walker said. “Bike riding is very heart healthy.”

Mary Cash, owner of Cooper’s Bicycle Center, said there are several meeting sites for people who would rather ride their bicycle with a group.

Whataburger, the Senior Center and Babcock Park are optional gathering sites for the event. Participants meet at one of the three locations at 7:15 a.m. From the meeting site, a member of the Red Dirt Pedalers will lead the group to the hospital for refreshments at 9:30 a.m., Cash said.

The first 100 riders to sign up for Bike to Work Day at Cooper’s Bicycle Center will receive a free T-shirt, as well as the chance to be entered into a drawing for a free bicycle courtesy of Stillwater Medical Center and Stillwater National Bank.

        

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