improving lives through bicycling
Inside:
p. 7-10 May 2015 / Vol. 45 No. 05
Bike to School Day at Newport High School By Guy de Gouville, Newport High School student
cascade.org
Number of people walking and biking is on the rise By Andrea Clinkscales, Principal Planner
The results are in! Thanks to the help of over 300 volunteers, data from the 2014 annual statewide bicycle and pedestrian counts are in.
At Newport High School in Bellevue, students have organized the school’s first Bike to School Day event.
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Two years ago when I first heard about Bike to School Day, I was surprised that not a single school in my city, Bellevue, was participating in the event. This year it’s about to change. Last fall, along with several other students who bike to school on a regular basis, I formed a bicycle advocacy club at Newport High School. One of our big objectives was to organize a Bike to School Day at Newport in 2015. After several months of planning, we now have an outline for the event. We have collaborated with the Newport HS administration, Cascade Bicycle Club, the city of Bellevue, Interlake High School and local organizations throughout the process. Event planning can be overwhelming, but here’s how we did it: We started with a brainstorming session at a club meeting, added ideas from other successful schools’ Bike to School Days and suggestions from the city of Bellevue. Our list included a bike maintenance party to get students’ bikes ready to ride, food and goodies for students, wayfinding signage to help direct students to school, extra bike parking and a pop-up protected bike lane. Once we had a good list of ideas, we presented them to the school administration for approval. All of our ideas made the cut with the exception of the pop-up protected bike lane. Finally, we armed ourselves with promotional materials. Thanks to our school’s audio/video announcements produced by students every two weeks and Cascade’s Bike Month materials, we have great ways to get the word out. In collaboration with Interlake High School students, who are also hosting a Bike to School Day event, we have created an online survey to help us gauge participation and increase awareness. We are so excited to welcome students to school on National Bike to School Day, Wednesday May 6, and we are hopeful that our student-led bike to school day at Newport High School will encourage more students to take on the two wheels as their main way of commuting.
What did we learn? Between 2013 and 2014, we saw an overall three percent increase in the total number of people traveling by bike or on foot in our annual statewide count. Even more exciting is the Total bikes and peds counted 2008-2014 colossal 280 percent increase in the number of bikes and pedestrians counted between 2008 and 2014, with 19,000 in 2008 and 72,000 in 2014. Growth of the effort The Washington State Department of Transportation launched the Washington State Bicycle and Pedestrian Documentation Project, also known as the annual statewide bike and pedestrian count, in 2008. Over the last six years we’ve added many count cities, locations and volunteers to the program. Between 2008 and 2014, we increased the number of count cities from 20 to 49, count locations from 102 to 418 and count volunteers from 130 to 320. The gender gap In 2012, we began to collect information on perceived gender and helmet usage. In both 2013 and 2014, women represented just 19 percent of counted bicyclists, while men represented 81 % Female Bicycles % Male Bicycles percent. The gender disparity was smaller among pedestrians, with 43 percent representation from women and 57 percent from men. For both female and male bicyclists and pedestrians, there was no change among the two count years. With helmet use, we saw a one percent increase in female helmet use from 2013-2014, with 89 percent of women using helmets in 2013 and 90 percent in 2014. However, male helmet use dropped 15 percent in those years, with 83 percent of men using helmets in 2013 and only 68 percent in 2014. The trend Across the country, bicycling and walking are strongly reestablishing as modes of transportation to work, school and errands as well as a means to stay fit and healthy. The trend clearly illustrates that a growing number of people are getting around on two feet and wheels. Moreover, the data helps inform street design, policy and funding for better bikeways and walkways. If you are interested in helping us count in 2015 or have questions about 2014 data or methodology, email Andrea at andreac@cascade.org.
May 2015
Creating transformations By Elizabeth Kiker, Executive Director
Turn passion into action: serve on the Cascade board of directors By Anne-Marije Rook, Communications Director
Me and my first child on my brand new Waterford before he had ever had teeth, much less visited a dentist.
My children, all three of them, love going to the dentist. They mark it on their calendars in red, they plan for it and they gleefully jump on the family bikes when we say: Today’s the day! Why? Are we parents with excellent dental hygiene, who want to pass that on to our children? Umm... let’s say we aspire to that, but haven’t quite achieved it. Do we go to a dentist who just hands out candy and smiles? Not that either. Our dentist belongs to an association and attends annual conferences. At one of them, she heard of a way to create a ‘kids day’ every six months. The kids are welcomed with signs on the door listing each of their names, there is entertainment lined up (recently: a caricaturist and a balloon artist) and the staff is warm and welcoming. There are non-sugary treats at the ready for when the kids are done, and there are movies showing above the dental chairs. What my husband and I feared and dreaded has been completely transformed for my children—and their excitement has even survived a cavity filling or two. No one (or very few people) equate bicycling to going to the dentist. But people do fear for their safety while bicycling, and dread interacting with traffic. At Cascade, under the direction of the board and the strategic plan, we’ve been implementing lots of our own versions of Children’s Day, from encouraging a wide variety of free daily rides, including family rides and SLOW (Senior Ladies On Wheels) rides to launching a new program aimed at recruiting and encouraging more women to ride. She Bikes Cascade launched in early April, and the excitement in the room was palpable. Megan Jasper, executive vice president of Sub Pop Records, spoke about her experiences as a cyclist for transportation, for fundraising and for healing from grief. I talked about how many types of cyclists I’ve been in my life, from fun, to transportation, to cross-country to family. And hundreds of women, and a few men, talked with each other about our collective hopes, fears and dreams for bicycling in the Puget Sound region. The women’s specific classes, clinics and rides, as well as new rides for people of all abilities, like the Woodinville Wine Ride and Seattle Night Ride, are all designed to transform fear into excitement. As we enter and celebrate Bike Month, I’m reminded of the first colleague to ride with me to work, a man who changed my life. The best way to transform fear into fun is to pass the word on yourself. So: Join us! At the Bike Everywhere Breakfast, as a participant in the Commute Challenge, at a She Bikes event or anywhere else we are spreading the joy of bicycling. Together, we’ll change the world (and we’ll never have to fill even a single cavity). Best,
Daniel Wiese, Cascade Board Vice President, dons his official Cascade board T-shirt.
The Cascade board of directors is an eclectic group of passionate people. There’s 31-year-old Alexa, an accountant by day and hill crusher by night; George, a hardworking father of three who’s probably one of the best-dressed bike commuters on Seattle’s streets; and Don, a 75-year-old retired military officer with tens of thousands of miles in his legs. It’s their shared passion and dedication for the recreation, transportation and lifestyle that is bicycling that brought them together on the Cascade board of directors. Together, they are an invaluable voice and resource for all the work Cascade does. “Serving as part of Cascade’s board provides unique opportunities to work with remarkable women and men who bring their own enthusiasm, passion and commitment to their work as volunteers and professionals,” said board member George Durham. “I ran for the board originally to help give back and support an organization I care a great deal about—for the role it plays in the community, the region and the everyday lives of bicyclists, whether they are members or not. I wanted to help ensure that the club could continue doing the things it does well for a long time to come and help make the larger community of which we are all part a better place for riding.” At the end of this year, the board will be expanding from 13 to 15 members. This means that we’re looking for candidates to fill those spots. If you share the board’s passion for bicycling and feel committed to creating opportunities for everyone to ride bikes, we’re looking for you! Ideal candidates will have leadership and/or previous board experience, a history of service to Cascade or the bicycling community and the time and energy to contribute to and enhance a multifaceted not-for-profit organization. We value diversity in all its forms, but especially in background, experience, expertise and approaches to problem solving. Please consider nominating yourself, your friend, a colleague, a family member or anyone else you know who has passion for our mission and a desire to spread the joy and power of bicycling throughout the region. “Board service is a significant commitment but also a wonderful opportunity to serve and to give back to an organization you feel strongly about. You’ll meet and interact with wonderful people, learn a great deal, and be able to have a tangible, lasting impact on the future and direction of Cascade,” said Durham. “You find, as a board member, that when people find out you’re on the board, they know Cascade and its programs, and are eager to engage in a discussion. Being able to represent the organization in the community is a real privilege. And, of course, to do all of the above from your saddle is always a lot of fun!” About board service: The Board of Directors of the Cascade Bicycle Club represents the voice of its members and is responsible to the membership. Its role is to ensure that Club resources are being used to the greatest benefit for all members as well as the larger cycling community. A board term runs for three calendar years, starting January 1 after election. The board meets five times a year, has an annual retreat and a brief phone meeting in August. Each board member is also expected to participate on at least one board committee. Please submit your nominations to the Nomination Committee at jointheboard@ cascade.org or directly to the Club office.
Elizabeth Kiker 2
www.cascade.org
Vol. 45, No. 05
Introducing: the Woodinville Wine Ride and Seattle Night Ride By Meghna Jaradi, Events and Sponsorship Coordinator
Cascade Bicycle Club is excited to introduce two brand-new rides to the biking community: the Woodinville Wine Ride and the Seattle Night Ride! Help us create some new summertime traditions by coming out on these two awesome rides!
Join us Sunday, June 7, for the Woodinville Wine Ride, a breezy 30-mile ride in partnership with the Woodinville Wine Association. We’ll start out in the Woodinville Commons, right in the heart of wine country, and will roll along the beautiful Sammamish River and Burke-Gilman trails into Seattle and back. At the midpoint at Cascade Bicycling Center in Magnuson Park, riders can look forward to local wine tasting, fine food sampling and the gentle breeze coming off Lake Washington. Once back at the Woodinville finish line festival, we’ll enjoy food, local wine and live music. Friends and family are welcome to join in the fun at the finish line! With their paid registration, riders receive two tickets for wine sampling, good at either the midpoint or finish line, along with a wine-themed giveaway.
The Seattle Night Ride will take place on Friday, July 24, at 9 p.m. Bust out your glow-in-the-dark gear and join us for this leisurely 13-mile route that’s fun for all ages and abilities. Riders will have the chance to trick out their bikes before leaving Gasworks Park. Then we’ll coast along the Burke-Gilman, cross the University Bridge and pedal along Lake Union. The midpoint at Myrtle Edwards Park will feature live music, a beer garden and food for purchase. Riders then will utilize the Elliott Bay, Ship Canal and Burke-Gilman trails to mosey to the finish line party at Peddler Brewing Company. Costumes and bike accessories safe for riding are encouraged, and prizes will be awarded at the finish line. With their paid registration, riders will receive one beverage ticket good for a beer or soft drink and an awesome Night Ride giveaway item.
Thanks to our sponsors:
Registration for both these rides are now open, and spots are filling up quickly! Find out more at cascade.org/woodinville-wine-ride and cascade.org/night-ride.
Thanks to our sponsors:
Classes • Bicycle Repair • Coaching • Retail WEST SEATTLE: 3418 Harbor Avenue SW SANDPOINT: 5440 Sand Point Way NE
SHOP ONLNE AT: CycleU.com Mention this ad for $25 off any purchase of $100 or more
Looking for more great rides? Visit cascade.org/rides
Offer expires June 31, 2015. Cannot be combined with any other offer - limit one per customer
Improving Lives Through Bicycling
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May 2015
Unlock your city and win By Briana Orr, Communications Specialist
Celebrate and share the joy of bicycling. Each week, when you submit your story, poem or photo, Cascade will give you an opportunity to win awesome prizes, including a bike from Traitor Cycles! It’s easy to enter, just follow these steps: 1. Follow Cascade Bicycle Club on Instagram and Twitter(@cascadebicycle), and join the 2015 Bike Month Facebook page at facebook.com/ CascadeBikeMonth. 2. Check out the contest of the week and submit your story, haiku or photo by midnight on Sundays. 3. Tag #bikemonthsweeps on your posts–and voila! Cross your fingers and wait for the winner announcement! Stay tuned for contest announcements and prizes.
THE COURIER CREW Editor: Anne-Marije Rook Editorial assistants: Diane English and Briana Orr Layout: Sarah Kulfan and Tom Eibling Photographers: Guy de Gouville, Briana Orr, Anne-Marije Rook, Alexa Volwiler Contributors: Jeff Aken, Andrea Clinkscales, Mary Collins, Rachel Edlund, Guy de Gouville, Meghna Jaradi, Dylan Joffe, Elizabeth Kiker, Shannon Koller, Stacey Nakagawa, Briana Orr, Anne-Marije Rook, Rebecca Sorensen, Anna Telensky
Thanks to our sponsor:
GiveBIG and support the Cascade Bicycle Club Education Foundation By Rachel Edlund, Development Intern
Did you know there’s one day every year where you can make money stretch? It’s true! When you participate in GiveBIG, your donation actually be worth more than any other day of the year. On Tuesday, May 5, money donated to the Cascade’s Education Foundation through the Seattle Foundation’s GiveBig campaign will go a little bit further to support our work improving lives through bicycling. The Seattle Foundation’s GiveBIG is a one-day, online charitable giving event to inspire people to give generously to nonprofit organizations who make our region a healthier and more vital place to live (that’s us!). GiveBIG is a day to support championship-worthy work (aw shucks, now we’re blushing). The Seattle Foundation will use contributions by sponsors to match a percentage of your donation given between midnight on Tuesday, May 5, until midnight on Wednesday, May 6 (PDT). Support Cascade and help us improve lives through bicycling. Your generosity will help bring bicycling education programs to every elementary school in Seattle and improve bikeways in the Puget Sound region.
We welcome your contributions! Got an inspiring story or a great photo? We welcome submissions. The editorial calendar is planned one month in advance. If you wish to contribute an article to a future issue, contact the editor as early as possible. Articles and photographic submissions are due by the 10th of the month prior to publication. Articles submitted after that will be considered on a space-available basis. All submissions are subject to editing for content and space. Queries can be amrook@cascade.org.
emailed
to:
Advertising: We welcome ads and inserts. To check availability and inquire about prices, please contact Briana Orr at brianao@ cascade.org. Let’s be social! Follow Cascade on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. cascade.org facebook.com/cascadebicycleclub @cascadebicycle @cascadebicycle
CONTACT US
It’s easy to GiveBig: 1. On Tuesday, May 5, visit seattlefoundation.org/ GivingCenter/GiveBIG 2. Click the “Search Organizations” button and enter “Cascade Bicycle Club Education Foundation” on the following screen. 3. On our nonprofit’s profile page, click on the “Donate Now” button and select “Make a credit card donation.” 4. Fill out the required information on the online donation form. 5. Hit submit, and pat yourself on the back for helping us improve lives through bicycling.
Steer your browser to seattlefoundation.org/GivingCenter/GiveBIG in this 24-hour period On Tuesday, May 5, and GiveBIG to the Cascade Bicycle Club Education Foundation.
Cascade Bicycle Club 7787 62nd Avenue NE, Seattle, WA 98115
www.cascade.org Office phone: 206-522-3222 Email: info@cascade.org
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
SENIOR STAFF
Note: All email addresses are @cascade.org
Elizabeth Kiker, Executive Director (206) 523-9495 • elizabethk@
President Catherine Hennings • catherine. hennings@
Jeff Aken, Advocacy Director (206) 300-5932 • jeffa@
Vice President Daniel Weise • daniel.weise@
David Douglas, Rec. Riding Director (206) 769-6575 • davidd@
Treasurer Alexa Volwiler • alexa.volwiler@
Ed Ewing, Director of Diversity & Inclusion (206) 778-4671 • ede@
Secretary George Durham • george.durham@ Director at large Charles Ruthford • charles.ruthford@ DIRECTORS Nate Glissmeyer • nate.glissmeyer@ Sandi Navarro • sandin@ Joe Platzner • joe.platzner@ Merlin Rainwater • merlin.rainwater@ Jim Stanton • jim.stanton@ Don Volta • don.volta@ Haley Woods • haleyw@ Ed Yoshida • ed.yoshida@
Shannon Koller, Director of Education (206) 696-4425 • shannonk@ Serena Lehman, Director of Membership & Outreach (206) 291-4032 • serenal@ Kathy Mania, Finance Director (206) 498-2607 • kathym@ Robbie Phillips, Director of Strategic Development (206) 229-5187 • robbiep@ Anne-Marije Rook, Communications Director (208) 870-9406 • amrook@ Tarrell Wright, Development Director (206) 240-2235 • tarrellw@
The Cascade Bicycle Club Board of Directors meets five times a year. All meetings take place at the Cascade Bicycling Center, 7787 62nd Avenue NE, at 5:30 p.m. Board meetings are open to the public. Upcoming meetings are: Saturday, May 16, Wednesday, Sept. 16 and Wednesday, Nov. 18.
Help us transform the Puget Sound! Renew now at cascade.org/renew
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Vol. 45, No. 05
Q&A with Diane Wiatr, Active Transportation Coordinator, city of Tacoma By Jeff Aken, Advocacy Director
Q: It’s exciting to hear that Tacoma has proclaimed this year as the “Year of the Bike.” How did this initiative come about, and how do you expect it will impact the city? A: The Year of the Bike was initiated by Downtown On the Go, Tacoma’s transportation management association. They will be working with a variety of homespun cycling organizations, the city and the broader community, to encourage bicycling for all trips. So much is going on and we want to celebrate all the individuals, organizations, rides and events. Q: The Major Taylor Project (MTP) is now in Tacoma–how do you see this helping to get more kids on bikes? What additional benefits do you think kids will enjoy? A: When I first met Ed Ewing, I was moved by the nature of the program which comprehensively addresses the development of the kids involved and provides incredibly opportunities for personal growth. All schools would benefit from teaching kids to ride from the viewpoint of building skills, independence and self-esteem. The MTP will get kids out cycling with a skill set. That will be a remarkable asset to Tacoma. Q: Not many people know that Tacoma was at one time a bicycling mecca. What did bicycling looking like back in the day (1890-1900)? A: Tacoma created bike facilities while the roadways were still dirt and difficult to navigate by any mode. Seattleites would take the ferry to Tacoma to ride on the new bike facilities to Mt. Rainier or American Lake in Lakewood to picnic. Tacoma imposed a $1 tax on bicycles in the 1890s that helped pay for the construction of 40 miles of bike highways. The Tacoma Wheelmen’s bicycle club initiated this program and helped in the construction of the bikeways. Q: How has endorsing the NACTO Urban Street Design Guide changed the Tacoma is thinking about street design and bike improvements? A: I gave some of our engineers the NACTO Urban Street Design Guide tied up with a big red ribbon for the holidays. It will be the best money
Diane Wiatr
spent when we start designing some innovative projects. That book provides the city of Tacoma the possibility for bigger thinking, as does Washington State Department of Transportation’s 2012 legislation that allows for greater flexibility in design. Q: What does the future of bikeways (bike infrastructure) look like in Tacoma? A: Tacoma has several trails of great importance planned. The most significant, perhaps, is the Schuster Promenade, which will fill a significant gap in the Dome to Defiance Trail between South Downtown and Point Defiance Park. The trail will transform the way Tacomans and visitors get around and understand the city.
Ride with the Cascade board! By Alexa Volwiler, Cascade Boardmember
Our next ride is scheduled for Saturday, June 13, hosted by Sandi Navarro and Merlin Rainwater. There will be a couple of different paces using varying routes which will converge at the Cascade Bicycling Center. This ride will signify the kickoff of the Phase 2 capital campaign envisioned to convert the center’s exterior to a place of learning and gathering. For more details and more free group rides, visit: cascade.org/calendar.
Seattle Employer Bike Summit Biking means business Friday, June 12, 1-4 p.m. followed by optional happy hour until 5:30 p.m. Cambia Grove (Regence) Cascade’s board, staff and members come together for the first quarterly board ride.
Last month the Cascade Board hosted their first quarterly board ride through the Free Group Rides Program. Board members Catherine Hennings, Nate Glissmeyer, Charles Ruthford, Alexa Volwiler, Jim Stanton, Ed Yoshiba, former board member Ron Sher and Cascade Executive Director Elizabeth Kiker joined many Cascade ride leaders and riders for a 30-mile loop. We rode from Log Boom Park to Edmonds with a couple of neat stops along the way, including Walnut Street Coffee in Edmonds and the Cascade Bicycling Center in Magnuson Park. This route provided a fun mix of quiet trails with challenging climbs–the views at the top made the hills all worthwhile! This ride provided a comfortable setting for board members and riders to interact, discuss ideas and share their love of bicycling. The board will host rides quarterly as long as interest and weather permits.
Improving Lives Through Bicycling
1800 9th Ave., Seattle Join fellow business representatives for this fun and informative event. You’ll hear from business leaders about the rising importance of bike commuting and its effect on your bottom line. Learn and share practical take-aways on topics such as: • biking benefits for business and corporate culture; • setting up bike amenities and infrastructure; • biking benefits for employee retention and recruitment; and • integrating bike commuting into wellness and commute trip-reduction programs. For more information, visit cascade.org/employers-bike-summit.
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May 2015
Alaska Airlines Flying Wheels Summer Century By Rebecca Sorensen, Event Producer
Training for a ride to Portland or Vancouver? Ready to get the first big miles of summer on your bike? Never ridden a century before? We can think of a lot of reasons to ride Cascade Bicycle Club’s Alaska Airlines Flying Wheels Century on Saturday, May 30. (But, we have trouble finding a reason to stay home.) Riders can choose from a variety of routes that weave in and out of the Snoqualmie and Snohomish valleys. For riders looking for a challenge and to test their early summer fitness, the century route (100 miles) is a beautiful and challenging option. For those wanting a challenge, but not quite as much time in the saddle, we offer a 67- and a 45-mile route. If you’re looking for a more leisurely ride to kick your summer off, we also offer a fairly flat 23-mile route around Lake Sammamish. Start/Finish Location: Marymoor Park; East end velodrome parking Start Line Hours: 6:30 to 9 a.m. Start in waves based on distance Finish Line Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Finish line festival features the Schooner Exact beer garden, Seattle Sausage booth, WA sports massage and more. Register online and save $20! Register before midnight on Wednesday, May 20, and your packet will be mailed to you. Online registration officially closes at midnight on Wednesday, May 27. Flying Wheels does not sell out, but we can think of a few tasty after-ride treats you could buy with the $20 you saved by pre-registering. Once again Cascade is partnering with Camp Korey and encouraging riders to help send kids with life-altering medical conditions to camp. Riders who commit to raising $150 for Camp Korey will receive free entry to any Flying Wheels route and give the life-changing gift of camp to thousands of Northwest children and families. Register with Camp Korey here http://campkorey.org/ flyingwheels. Please note: the 23-mile route does not visit Camp Korey. Alaska Airlines Flying Wheels Summer Century is a fundraiser for the Cascade Bicycle Club and the Cascade Bicycle Club Education Foundation. Thanks to riders like yourself, Cascade Bicycle Club and its Education Foundation introduces thousands of students in the Puget Sound region the joys, empowerment and practicality of riding a bike. Your fee helps us advocate for roads and trails that are safe and convenient for families and commuters. And thanks to you, we’re able to host fun and challenging events for riders of all ages and abilities. More event and registration details, maps and elevation information can be found at: www.cascade.org/flying-wheels
Thanks to our title sponsor: We’re excited to welcome Alaska Airlines as the new title sponsor of this year’s Alaska Airlines Flying Wheels. Alaska invites you to start exploring at 30,000 feet. Your journey becomes part of the adventure as you watch free entertainment, enjoy Pacific Northwest-inspired food and beverages, relax in our custom, leather, power-equipped seats, and experience our award-winning service. It’s all part of Alaska Beyond™ — a new way to travel, designed to go above and beyond your expectations. Thanks to our sponsors:
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Vol. 45, No. 05
MAY IS BIKE MONTH
Follow @cascadebicycle on Twitter and Instagram and tag your daily adventures with #UnlockYourCity
UNLOCK YOUR CITY
cascade.org/bikemonth #UnlockYourCity
Improving Lives Through Bicycling
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May 2015
MAY IS BIKE MONTH Experience the sights and sounds of your neighborhood from a front-row seat. Unlock your city and bike everywhere in May! Sip coffee with a mountain vista, pick up treats at your local farmers market and smell the spring flowers on your way. Communities around the region are celebrating National Bike Month, and Cascade Bicycle Club invites you to join thousands of your neighbors in a monthlong celebration of bicycling! Whether this is your first year bicycling or fiftieth, May is the best time to bike—to the movies, work, school or just for fun. If you’re new to biking, Cascade will be there to support you along the way. We’ve planned a great lineup of events, themed group rides and workshops—join us!
It’s fast and (almost) free. Two thirds of all U.S. trips are two miles or less.1 A person on a bike can cover that distance in about 10 minutes (and you don’t have to circle the block looking for a parking spot!)
It will make you happy. Seriously! People who bike to work report lower stress and greater feelings of freedom, relaxation and happiness.2
Everyone’s doing it.
Bicycling is on the rise in the Puget Sound region. Bike counts in Seattle grew over 39% between 2013 and 2014.3 In 2014, over 2,400 people started riding for the first time during Bike Month.
WE’VE PUT TOGETHER A GREAT LINEUP OF EVENTS YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS! Take the Bike Month Challenge presented by Adobe May 1-31 Challenge yourself and others to ride as much as possible this May, earn bragging rights and prizes for your bike trips and inspire a friend to try biking. New this year: You can track all your bike trips on our sleek new website! Trips can be to work, to coffee or just for fun.
Join us for the Group Health Bike Everywhere Breakfast on May 7
Register for Cascade’s fun, free online trip-tracking contest at cascade.org/challenge.
Save your seat at the Group Health Bike Everywhere Breakfast at cascade.org/breakfast.
Participate in F5 Bike to Work Day on May 15 Enjoy treats and swag at morning commute stations all over the region, or host your own DIY station in your neighborhood. Join a ride or rally and stop by Velo Bike Shop After Party on your way home. Find commute station locations and DIY station toolkits online at cascade.org/commute-stations.
Sign up your child for Bike to School Month
Cascade membership powers Bike Month. Join Cascade at cascade.org/join 8
Cascade’s annual breakfast brings together 1,000 people from the bicycling community including elected officials, business leaders, advocates and more. Hear about the important work going on in our community to “improve lives through bicycling” and get ready to have a great time!
Cascade hosts a friendly Bike to School Month competition and provides incentives to students who bike to school. Parents can sign up to organize Bike to School Month or Bike to School Day (May 6) festivities at their elementary schools. Find more information at cascade.org/bts.
Don’t want to lock your bike up downtown? Don’t have a bike? Try Pronto Cycle Share for short trips in Seattle. Learn more at prontocycleshare.com. www.cascade.org
Vol. 45, No. 05
5 WAYS TO GET YOUR FRIENDS BICYCLING
MAY 2015
By Briana Orr, Communications Specialist
Do you remember what it’s like to bicycle for the first time? Balancing on two wheels, dodging suicidal squirrels on the path and trying to have a conversation all at once… it can be a little daunting! If you’re trying to convince your friend, colleague or partner to get out and ride for the first time, here are five ways that will up your chances of having them fall in love with bicycling this May:
Make something else the main event.
Invite your friend to lunch, coffee or the farmers market and ride bikes there. The key here is to make the riding easy, and make it secondary to the main event. Three to five miles will feel like a long ride for anyone new to bicycling, and having a destination that includes fun and food will make the ride that much more enjoyable. Don’t be that guy who takes his girlfriend on a black diamond for her first ride. Go for the bunny hill.
The [Bike Month] challenge provided “ the little extra boost needed for me to make that jump to everyday bike commuting, so for that I’m grateful. I’m definitely going to continue after it’s over, it just feels so good.
”
–Jesse Sandoval
wouldn’t go back [to not biking]. “ II very much prefer commuting by bike.
Offer to help trick out your friend’s bike (or just get it functioning).
It’s flexible and faster in all ways and it’s my exercise!
If you got mechanic skills, use them! If you don’t, go with them to a bike shop and help translate mechanic-speak into normal words.
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–Rina Fa’amoe
Make a goal of your own and ask your friends for help.
Maybe you are a weekend warrior trying to commute to work in May, or maybe you just want to get on the bike every day. Share your goal with your friends and ask for their help to accomplish your goals! Friends want to help friends, after all.
Pick a beginner-friendly bicycling event and invite your peeps.
Cascade’s Bike-n-Brews, Woodinville Wine Ride and Seattle Night Ride are all great choices for beginners! Also, Lake Washington Bike Sundays begin in May, where the streets are open to people walking, biking, skating and closed to cars.
Wear normal clothes.
Also, pick a sunny day for someone’s first ride. This should be obvious. But I feel like it needs to be said.
to use myself as an example of how “aI like person who is not really an athlete, who does not have an expensive bike, who rides slow, can become an everyday bike commuter. I tell people there are lots of obvious benefits but the best one is how you feel about yourself when you walk in the door after riding up Stone Way! I am still amazed that a person my age is out there, in traffic, in the rain, riding in the dark, and I feel great!
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–Ref Lindmark
UNLOCK YOUR CITY THIS MAY....
cascade.org/bikemonth Improving Lives Through Bicycling
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May 2015
BIKE TO SCHOOL MONTH IS FINALLY HERE! By Shannon Koller, Director of Education
Kids all around the Puget Sound region are getting ready to track their rides each day to earn cool prizes. 48 schools are registered so far, including seven middle and high schools new to the Bike to School Challenge. We’ve unveiled a new online platform for our middle and high schoolers to keep track of their rides and immediately see how they stack up on the leaderboard. One of the best features of the website, developed by Luum, is being able to track how much CO2 you are not emitting into the environment, just by riding to school. It’s fun to watch the number grow as the month goes on. Middle and high schoolers will receive a Bike Benefits sticker just for registering and can win other prizes throughout the challenge just for logging rides on the website each week. Traitor Cycles has donated hand-crafted steel bikes to both the top middle and high school riders of the Bike to School Challenge. Several high school students in the Bellevue School District have been busy planning Bike to School activities as they celebrate Bike Month for the first time. They have collaborated with one another, shared ideas and will even host a
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free bike maintenance day to help their fellow students prepare to ride in May and beyond. Elementary students will track their minutes of riding on a calendar that is collected by their school’s Bike to School coordinator at the end of the month. They will either earn bike spoke sliders or a bike strap for their pant leg, depending on how often they ride during May. Seattle Mayor Ed Murray will be riding with a group of students and their family members in a bike train to Alki Elementary School on Bike to School Day, Wednesday, May 6 (see page 1 for details). The train will go from Anchor Park, along beautiful Alki Drive, to the school’s playground where a welcome celebration has been planned. Bike to School Day is celebrated around the nation by thousands of kids and families. It is not too late to get your school community involved in Bike Month! Students and schools can join at any time during the month.
JOIN THE FUN:
!
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR BIKE TO SCHOOL SPONSORS:
Register your student for Bike to School Month Challenge at: cascade.org/bts
www.cascade.org
Vol. 45, No. 05
Bike to School with Mayor Ed Murray By Briana Orr, Communications Specialist
Over 150 students and parents are expected to pedal to Alki Elementary School with the Mayor.
Wednesday, May 6, is gearing up to be a special National Bike to School Day! Thousands of students are expected to hop on their bikes and pedal to school with their parents and friends. And this year, Mayor Ed Murray will join over 150 parents and students in bicycling to Alki Elementary. Join us on one of two bike trains departing from Me-kwa-mooks Park and Anchor Park at 7:30 a.m. The bike trains will link up at Alki Beach to ride the last block together to Alki Elementary School (3010 59th Ave SW), arriving at approximately 8 a.m. Alki Elementary will host a welcome party with snacks, music and special prizes for the safest and most visible riders: get creative, kids! Providing safe routes for students to bike and walk to school is a cornerstone of Mayor Murray’s draft Transportation Levy to Move Seattle. If voters approve the levy this fall, it will fund safe walking and biking routes to every school in the Seattle Public School district. Please join us at any point along the route and celebrate National Bike to School Day! More information at: http://cascade.org/learn-school-based-programs/ bike-school
Improving Lives Through Bicycling
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May 2015
Gigantic Bicycle Film Series
New Cascade tours: tour lite
By Anna Telensky, Events & Sponsorship Manager
By Stacey Williams, Rides Manager
Cascade is excited to partner with Gigantic Bicycle Festival on their 2015 series of bicycle-inspired films. Gigantic will be hosting monthly film showings and art exhibits May-August at locations around the Pacific Northwest with a final outdoor Friday evening screening opening the Gigantic Bicycle Festival weekend. Tacoma Art Museum, Tacoma May 21, 5-7:30 p.m. Velo Cult, Portland Saturday, June 6, 7-10 p.m. Vera Project, Seattle Wednesday, July 15, 8-11 p.m. Bike-In Outdoor Cinema w/ Pickford Film Center, Bellingham Friday, August 14, 7 p.m. Gigantic Bicycle Festival, Centennial Fields Park, Snoqualmie August 21-23 Gigantic Bicycle Festival is the Pacific Northwest’s annual summer celebration of bicycle culture. The three-day, mid-August festival features a diverse, multi-faceted and regionally representative mix of live music, hand-built bicycles, visual and performance art, film, comedy, guest speakers, sculpture and interactive installation pieces.
We are excited to bring a new tour format to the existing Cascade tour program. This new format is designed to be a lower cost and introduce riders to the fun of bike touring. We will still provide excellent routes, sag support, nutrition and water on the route. We ask participants to provide their own accommodation and meals. This allows the flexibility to camp, stay with friends or perhaps splurge at a fun high-end hotel. We currently have two tour lite offerings:
More information is available at http://www.giganticbicyclefestival.org/film.
Seattle CycloFemme
By Briana Orr, Communications Specialist
Lake Chelan three-day weekend Friday, May 8-Sunday May 10 Come join us for a weekend of riding around beautiful Lake Chelan. This will be a fun way to get an early start on the season with some great rides around the lake, through vineyards and orchards, and in the hills above. Multiple paces and route distances will be offered each day ranging from 35 to 65 miles. These rides will cover much of the route used for the Lake Chelan Century Challenge held in late June, including the signature climb up McNeil Canyon. Rides each day will start in and around the town of Chelan and you are not required to ride each day. Whidbey Island four-day discovery weekend Friday, July 17-Monday, July 20
On May 10th, 130 cities across the world will host 155 rides, all in celebration of women on bikes! Join Seattle Critical Lass, Cascade Bicycle Club, Seattle Kidical Mass and Familybike Seattle for Seattle’s third annual CycloFemme. CycloFemme is a “Global Women’s Cycling Day created to honor the past and the emancipation of our grandmothers and great-grandmothers, for the freedom to choose and the chance to wear pants. To celebrate the present and the riders who keep it rolling, bringing women’s racing to the forefront, pushing the limits, breaking down barriers and sharing the love of the bike with everyone along the way. To empower the future of women in cycling and the opportunity for positive social change.” This year, Cyclofemme will feature multiple slow-paced social rides. Rides range from 4-10 miles and will all convene in Lake Union Park for a picnic. Just bring yourself, your friends, family and your bike. We’ll bring the food! For more information, visit cascade.org/women.
Seattle CycloFemme rides Capitol Hill CycloFemme 4 miles | Cal Anderson Park Pronto Station, 11th and Pine Meet time: 3:15 p.m. SLOW Ride CycloFemme 6 miles | from Northwest African American Museum, 2300 S. Massachusetts St. Meet time: 2:30 p.m. Greenlake CycloFemme 10 miles | from PCC Greenlake Village, 457 NE 71st Street Meet time: 2 p.m.
The Whidbey Island tour is just a short ferry ride from the Seattle metropolitan area. Whidbey’s soaring views and rural charm have made it a natural as an escape from suburban reality, and is an essential part of a Washington tour. The casual but cultured attitude made it our choice for a tour of discovery. We’ll visit the best of the island: Deception Pass, Penn Cove, Oak Harbor, Ebey’s Landing, Fort Casey, Greenbank Farm, Port Townsend, Fort Worden, Langley and much more. Rides on Friday, Saturday and Sunday will start from the center of Coupeville in the heart of the island. Monday’s ride will start in Freeland in preparation for our return to the mainland. For more information and to register, visit: cascade.org/cascade-club-tours.
Let’s bike to the movies! By Ariana Rundquist, Membership Manager
In celebration of National Bike Month, Central Cinema is screening a couple bicycle classics, Triplets of Belleville and Rad.
The Triplets of Belleville
Movie times: May 8-12, 7 p.m. Written and directed by Sylvain Chomet, this animated film follows Madame Souza who goes on an epic adventure when her bike racing grandson goes missing during the Tour de France.
Rad
Movie times: May 8-13, 9:30 p.m. Directed by Hal Needham in 1986, this is an extreme BMX movie classic. A hometown kid on his BMX against the best in the world. At Helltrack... the heat is on. Does Cru’s Rad Racing Team have the intensity to win? Cascade will lead a ride to see Triplets of Belleville on Friday, May 8. Join us! We’ll meet at 5:45 p.m. at Roanoke Park Place Tavern, 2409 10th Ave E, Seattle and ride to Central Cinemas together. Don’t forget your current Cascade membership card for a free popcorn. And if your helmet sports a Bicycle Benefits sticker, Central Cinema offers two movie tickets for the price of one. Roll over to Central Cinema at 1411 21st Ave. in Seattle, and enjoy the show!
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www.cascade.org
Vol. 45, No. 05
FREE GROUP RIDES RIDE LEADER CERTIFICATION CLASS Wednesday, May 13 6:30 p.m. Cascade Bicycle Club, 7787 62nd Ave NE, Seattle | Contact: Jane Volta Ride leaders are the heart and soul of our rides program. Our 300+ ride leaders keep the Free Group Rides calendar filled throughout the year, and you are invited to join the ranks. If you have an idea for a new ride, are interested in helping others ride or don’t see your favorite ride listed, consider joining our leaders’ team. Please see the requirements on the website at www.cascade.org/become-ride-leader.
EASY PACE (UNDER 10 mph) Sunday, May 3 SHE BIKES - Renee’s Ride Series: #2 from Greenlake to Fremont | 2 p.m. | 9 miles from PCC Greenlake Village, Seattle |Ride Leader: Renee Barton
Sunday, May 10 SHE BIKES - Renee’s Ride Series: #3 from Greenlake to South Lake Union Park Mother’s Day Picnic | 2 p.m. | 10 miles from PCC Greenlake Village, Seattle |Ride Leader: Renee Barton
Brewery, Woodinville | Ride Leader: Louise Johnson
Sunday, May 10 She Bikes: SLOW Ride to Seattle CycloFemme | 2:30 p.m. | 6 miles from Northwest African American Museum, Seattle | Ride Leader: Merlin Rainwater
Saturday, May 23 S.P.O.K.E.S. What’s New 520 in 2015? |Noon 20 miles from Juanita Beach Park, Kirkland |Ride Leaders: Michelle Burton, Jim Hunt
LEISURELY PACE (10-12 mph) Friday, May 1 Friday Riders bike Everett and Lowell/Snohomish Loop |10 a.m. 22 miles from Lowell Riverfront Park, Everett |Ride Leader: William Lemke Sunday, May 3 Sunday morning recovery ride around Lake Sammamish |11 a.m. 34 miles from Redhook Brewery, Woodinville | Ride Leader: Louise Johnson Sunday, May 10 Sunday morning recovery ride around Lake Sammamish |11 a.m. 34 miles from Redhook
Exceptional Ride Leader: Merlin Rainwater By Stacey Williams, Rides Manager
Sunday, May 10 SheBikes to CycloFemme | 3:15 p.m. 4 miles from Cal Anderson Park Pronto Station, Seattle | Ride Leader: Robin Randels
Sunday, May 24 Sunday morning recovery ride around Lake Sammamish | 11 a.m. 34 miles from Redhook Brewery, Woodinville | Ride Leader: Louise Johnson
STEADY PACE (12-14 mph) Tuesday, May 5 TREATS: Redhook Lake Sammamish Loop | 10 a.m. 34 miles from Redhook Brewery, Woodinville | Ride Leader: Aimee Mamich Thursday, May 7 North End Ride before Dark - NERD | 6 p.m. 21 miles from Lynnwood Transit Center (SE corner), Lynnwood |Ride Leaders: Sam Miller, Cheryl Philipp Thursday, May 14 North End Ride before Dark - NERD | 6 p.m. 21 miles from Lynnwood Transit Center (SE corner), Lynnwood | Ride Leaders: Sam Miller, Cheryl Philipp Friday, May 15 FRUMPS: CBC-Edmonds |10 a.m. 33 miles from Cascade Bicycle Club, Seattle | Ride Leader: Loretta Goetsch Saturday, May 16 UW, the Arboretum & Central Seattle |1 p.m. 20 miles from Green Lake Community Center, Seattle | Ride Leader: Bill Thorness Saturday, May 30 Downtown Tacoma & The Narrows | 11 a.m. 25 miles from Freighthouse Square, Tacoma | Ride Leader: Bill Thorness
MODERATE PACE (14-16 mph)
Merlin Rainwater (pictured far right) is a Cascade board member and Exceptional Ride Leader.
Merlin is being honored as an Exceptional Ride Leader for her efforts to create fun and interesting rides that appeal to a wide range of riders. Merlin created the SLOW ride series and while the acronym stands for “senior ladies on wheels,” SLOW is a much better description of the rides and riders that Merlin is supporting. She encourages all riders, but especially those who are new to biking or feeling a little intimidated by riding. This email from Mary Sanford expresses why Merlin is truly exceptional: Yesterday [Merlin] was my ride leader, and what a wonderful time I had. Before we left I queried her about busy streets and hills on her ride, thinking I would back out. True to her word, the ride was as she described with only a tiny bit of traffic. This was a slow ride, indeed. Merlin gave a very nice bike check and explained what we would encounter before we took off. She pointed out that what might seem like a slight rise to one rider would feel like a hill to another; a very reassuring comment. She was highly respectful and patient with me, and that gracious attitude and behavior was, in turn, echoed by two other riders. It was as if we had all the time in the world, and each time I had to stop, it was no big deal. Much to my surprise, I was able to finish all of the ride to the Polish Festival, a total of seven miles round-trip! Merlin is to be commended for her work as a ride leader. As a result, I am definitely interested in attending another one of her SLOW rides. Thank you Merlin for all the work you do as a ride leader! Improving Lives Through Bicycling
Sunday, May 10 Recovery Sunday | 9 a.m. 23.60 miles from East Lake Sammamish Trail, Redmond |Ride Leader: Carl Wainwright Monday, May 11 MUMPS: Head Up North |10 a.m. 65 miles from Tracy Owen Station/Log Boom Park, Kenmore |Ride Leader: Craig Mohn Monday, May 18 MUMPS: Head Up North | 10 a.m. 65 miles from Tracy Owen Station/Log Boom Park, Kenmore |Ride Leader: Craig Mohn Sunday, May 24 Recovery Sunday | 9 a.m. 23.60 miles from East Lake Sammamish Trail, Redmond |Ride Leader: Carl Wainwright
VIGOROUS (18-20 mph) See the Multipace listing
STRENUOUS: (20-22 mph) See the Multipace listing
SUPER STRENUOUS: (22mph +) Midweek Eastside Evening Training Series (MEETS) Leisurely (10-12 mph) to Vigorous (18-20 mph) Paces | Wednesdays, May 6, 13, 20, 27 6 p.m. | 25 miles from East Lake Sammamish Trail, Redmond Ride Leaders: Michelle Burton, Chao Chen, Bob Dennis, Louise Johnson, Zach Johnson, Bruce Klouzal, Deborah Munkberg, Sandi Navarro, Alexa Volwiler, Carl Wainwright, Rick Wiltfong RAMROD Training Series - 11th Annual Brisk (16-18 mph) to Super Strenuous: (22 mph +) Saturday , May 2, Ride #4. 9 a.m. 67 miles from South Sammamish Park & Ride, Sammamish Saturday, May 9, Ride #5. 9 a.m. 67 miles from South Sammamish Park & Ride, Sammamish Saturday, May 16, Ride #6. 8:30 a.m. 76 miles from Newport Hills Park & Ride, Bellevue
Sunday, May 3 Sunday morning recovery ride around Lake Sammamish | 11 a.m. 34.10 miles from Redhook Brewery, Woodinville | Ride Leader: Aimee Mamich
Saturday, May 23, Ride #7. 8:30 a.m. 77 miles from Newport Hills Park & Ride, Bellevue
Sunday, May 10 Sunday morning recovery ride around Lake Sammamish | 11 a.m. 34.10 miles from Redhook Brewery, Woodinville | Ride Leader: Aimee Mamich
Ride Leaders: Paul Franks, Francis Gan, Joe Sullivan, Per Sunde, Shana Sunde
Thursday, May 14 THUMPS: Home for Lunch |9:30 a.m. 30 miles from Leschi Starbucks, Seattle |Ride Leader: Mike Nelson Wednesday, May 20 WRUMPS Leschi: Home for Lunch |9:30 a.m. 30 miles from Leschi Starbucks, Seattle |Ride Leader: Mike Nelson
Saturday, May 30, Ride #8. 8:30 a.m. 94 miles from Ron Regis Park, Renton.
Cascade Advanced Training S eries @ Magnuson (CATS-m) Brisk: (16-18 mph) and Vigorous: (18-20 mph) Saturday, May 2. 9 a.m., 68 miles from Magnuson Park W6 Parking Lot, Seattle Saturday, May 9. 9 a.m., 100 miles from Magnuson Park W6 Parking Lot, Seattle Saturday, May 16. 9 a.m., 75 miles from Magnuson Park W6 Parking Lot, Seattle,
Sunday, May 24 Sunday morning recovery ride around Lake Sammamish |11 a.m. 34.10 miles from Redhook Brewery, Woodinville | Ride Leader: Aimee Mamich
Saturday, May 23. 9 a.m., 79 miles from Magnuson Park W6 Parking Lot, Seattle,
Thursday, May 28 THUMPS: Home for Lunch |9:30 a.m. 30 miles from Leschi Starbucks, Seattle | Ride Leader: Mike Nelson
Cascade Advanced Training Rides #5 Eastside Brisk: (16-18 mph) to Strenuous: (20-22 mph)
BRISK PACE (16-18 mph) Monday, May 4 MUMPS: Head Up North |10 a.m. 65 miles from Tracy Owen Station/Log Boom Park, Kenmore | Ride Leader: Craig Mohn
Ride Leaders: Mark Gringle, Mark Keithly, Machiko Threlkeld, Karl Wehden, Gary Williams, Alfred Fung, Sandi Gold, Terence Shelton
Saturday, May 2, 9 a.m. | 75 miles from East Lake Sammamish Trail, Redmond | Ride Leaders: Jean-Pierre Chamberland, Bob Dennis, Cathy Henley, Rich Knox, Wilfried Mack, David Mattson, Alexa Volwiler
This is a sampling of this month’s rides. For a complete listing, see cascade.org/calendar. For full details of the listed rides, see cascade.org/grouprides. This is also where you’ll find ride guidelines to help you select a ride that suits your style, skills and energy level.
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May 2015
Riding while pregnant By Anne-Marije Rook, Communications Director
and aerobic exercise–such as walking, hiking, jogging, dancing, swimming, cycling, rowing and cross-country skiing–is encouraged. Remaining active during pregnancy has shown to help with weight control, maintenance of flexibility even help your mood, posture and sleep. “The biggest benefits of cycling throughout your pregnancy is that it’s a good way to keep some flexibility and strength,” said Studley. “I have also found it to be a nice stretch to round out my back and I have had no back pain thanks to cycling.” Studley said she likes to mix it up and alternates between walking, swimming, yoga and cycling. “As walking, especially up stairs, gets exponentially harder, I’m glad cycling allows me to get in some cardio and keep moving,” she said.
Kari Studley, pictured at 33 weeks pregnant, is still bicycling to stay fit, flexible and healthy during her pregnancy.
Many of us here at Cascade have adopted the bike-everyday-lifestyle. Rain, heavy groceries, meetings–nothing deters us. Not even pregnancy. Our Outreach Director pedaled through most of her pregnancy and one employee would have probably pedaled herself to the hospital if it hadn’t been pouring rain that day! Bicycling, when done carefully, is actually a great way to stay fit, flexible and healthy throughout your pregnancy and it can even ease your back pain. We recently caught up with local cyclocross star and physical therapist, Kari Studley, who’s currently very pregnant. At the time of the interview, Studley was 33 weeks pregnant and still pedaling, albeit significantly slower than her usual pace. “I think I set a new record of how slow I could ride the hill up to my house!” Studley joked. “But I’m just glad I’m still able to ride.” An avid cyclist, Studley has been racing bikes at the elite and professional level since 2004. She’s a Masters World Cyclocross Champion, three-time National Cyclocross Champion, a Single Speed Cyclocross World Champion and six-time Washington State Cyclocross Champion. She also holds a Doctorate of Physical Therapy and is a certified yoga instructor. For her, being pregnant has been an educational experience that’s she’s eager to share with other bike-pedaling women. First things first: talk to your doctor “Exercise during pregnancy is based on the individual and pregnancy course, so definitely talk to your doctor,” said Studley. “But cycling is one of the better exercises to do.” Benefits New guidelines for exercise in pregnancy published by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states that habits adopted during pregnancy could affect a woman’s health for the rest of her life
Manage your expectations “You have to accept that you have absolutely no control of your body,” said Studley. “Adjust your expectations and do what you can.” This is a lesson that came early on for Studley. “During my first trimester I was so exhausted. I had no endurance and felt like crap. Half an hour (of cycling) was a lot for me,” she said, “And that makes sense because your body is going through so many changes. By the second trimester I felt a lot better.” “By then I had no more oomf on the hills. So I’m loving the Burke-Gilman right now,” she said. Adjust your bike position As the baby grows, so does your belly and you start getting the pressure on your bladder. “Bending forward becomes increasingly difficult so you have to adjust your bike position,” said Studley. “Get a higher stem and get yourself in an overall more comfortable and upright position.” Studley added that she switched to riding her mountain bike around instead of a road bike because having full-suspension was most comfortable. “By the third trimester, I was riding in a full-on cruiser position,” she said. “You’re getting big and you really start noticing the weight.” Staying stationary “If you’re new to cycling, stay stationary,” recommended Studley. “You’re carrying 15-20 extra pounds mostly on the front. You’re imbalanced and are a greater fall risk because of that, so be aware.” For any exercise, it’s best to stick with what you were comfortable doing pre-pregnancy. For bicycling especially, it’s best to stick to low-traffic neighborhood streets or multi-use trails. Listen to your body! “You have to listen to your body,” said Studley. “I can feel that my body is constantly changing, and there are days I don’t even want to come near my saddle. Your perceived rate of exertion is the best indicator of what your body can and can’t do.” Still an athlete, Studley said her approach to pregnancy isn’t unlike training. “I’m exercising, getting in some cardio and focusing on strength. Also, I’m eating like I’m training - nourishing my body the best I can,” she said. Though she did admit to having developed an odd craving for cake, which she had never particularly liked pre-pregnancy All in all, bicycling is a great, low-impact way to keep moving during your pregnancy. Just take a step back and let your body be your guide. “Be open, creative and listen to your body!” Studley said.
C Y C L I N G
AT T O R N E Y
Member of Cascade Bicycle Club & Washington Bikes Sponsor of Bikecafe, Bikesale.com, Blue Rooster, Cucina Fresca, Fischer Plumbing, Garage, Group Health, Lakemont, Project 13, Recycled Cycles, SCCA/Starbucks, SnoValley Velo and Spin Cycling Teams
206-343-1888 or 206-714-1085
Thanks for the positive feedback to this column. I’m happy to help! Please continue to email me your questions at amrook@cascade.org and I’ll answer them anonymously. Read our previous columns online at http://bit.ly/1y35egh The views expressed by columnist(s) are their own, and do not necessarily reflect the views of Cascade.
john@dugganbikelaw.com Free Consultation
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Vol. 45, No. 05
Early member spotlight: Kevin Carrabine By Briana Orr, Communications Specialist
In 1970, a small group of active cyclists gathered in a basement on Mercer Island. Little did these individuals know that they were going to change the future of bicycling in the Puget Sound region. Forty-five years later, the Cascade Bicycle Club is the largest bicycling organization of its kind in the U.S. with more than 15,000 members, 1,000 volunteers and 38 staff. Here we highlight a few of Cascade’s earliest members, hear how their involvement changed the course of their lives and find out what they’re up to today.
frustration, of months where he’d avoid the Missing Link because of the tension he felt while riding there, but he still has hope the trail will be completed. When asked what keeps him going, what keeps him motivated to keep fighting for the trail, he simply said, “this is the right thing to do… it would be easier to [be noncontroversial] but there’s this justice part to me.”
“To see their transformation from ‘I can’t imagine riding to work’ to ‘I can’t imagine not riding to work’ is exciting.” - Kevin Carrabine
Kevin Carrabine, founder of the Friends of the
Kevin Carrabine has been riding Burke-Gilman Trail and an early member of his bicycle to work for over 23 years Cascade. now, he’s been a member of Cascade since the early ‘90s, and recently served on Cascade’s Board of Directors in 2012-13. For the past two decades, his journey to work has always started in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood and taken him east along Lake Union, witnessing the evolution of the Burke-Gilman Trail from his saddle along the way. Kevin remembers when he started bicycling, the Burke-Gilman Trail just barely extended west of Gas Works Park. Today, largely due to his efforts, it almost takes him all the way home. In 1996, Kevin became involved in a citizen planning process and helped establish priorities for the future development of Crown Hill and Ballard neighborhoods. The neighborhoods’ number one priority? Extending the Burke-Gilman Trail through Ballard following the historic railroad line. Kevin, alongside a group of activists who emerged from the neighborhood planning process, founded Friends of the Burke-Gilman Trail in 1998, and he has been advocating for the completion of the trail ever since. Their fight (outlined in the March 2014 issue of the Courier) has now lasted over two decades. Kevin has been overcome by moments of doubt and
Kevin believes Burke-Gilman Trail is the ultimate place to attract people of all ages and abilities to hop on and ride. And that’s worth fighting for. The day that Kevin looks forward to this time of year is Bike to Work Day. For the past five years, the Friends of the Burke-Gilman Trail has hosted a commuter station, and Kevin loves getting the chance to talk to people who are giving bicycling a chance for the first time. “To see their transformation from ‘I can’t imagine riding to work’ to ‘I can’t imagine not riding to work’” is exciting, he said, adding that it is “potentially life-changing” for these individuals. Bike Month also gives folks an excuse to interact with one another while bicycling, said Kevin, even if it’s just a smile. On his daily commute, Kevin frequently interacts with a fellow recognizable by his shorts, which he wears no matter the time of the year or the weather. Each time they pedal past each other, his fellow Ballard neighbor breaks out in the biggest, goofiest smile and waves like he is reuniting with his best of friends. “I’m trying to be that guy,” Kevin said earnestly with a chuckle, “I just try to get people to laugh while on their bike!” If you see Kevin on the Burke-Gilman Trail or at the Friends of the Burke-Gilman commuter station this month, tell him thanks for all his work and give him something to smile about.
Cycle the
Selkirk Loop Washington - Canada - Idaho
September 14-19, 2015 6 Days - 350 Miles / 560 Km Breathtaking Scenery Best SAG Support of Any Ride An Amazing Adventure! www.WaCanId.org 1.888.823.2626
Improving Lives Through Bicycling
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May 2015
Join us for Red-Bell 100 By Stacey Nakagawa, Event Producer
Join us on Saturday, June 27, for a breathtaking ride from Redmond to Bellingham on the Red-Bell 100. We’ll traverse 104 miles of low-traveled back roads and bicycle trails through the scenic Pacific Northwest. The Red-Bell 100 route features rolling hills, pastoral farmland and the stunning backdrop of the Olympic Mountain range. Enjoy organic fresh fruit and snacks along the way, as well as a fully catered lunch stop. The ride ends in downtown Bellingham with a Finish Line party and BBQ at Boundary Bay Brewery. Besides being good wholesome fun, the Red-Bell 100 additionally provides a unique opportunity to support the global work of World Bicycle Relief and the community work of the Cascade Bicycle Club Education Foundation. By setting fundraising goals and engaging friends and families, riders will provide life-changing resources to those across the globe and in their own backyard. For more information and to register, visit: cascade.org/world-bicycle-relief-red-bell-100
Thanks to our sponsors:
H ING ELL IN B B REWED
, AM
WA
March Education Foundation Donor List Foundations $1,000-50,000
The 2010 Bazar and Heydt Family Revocable Trust
Corporate Support
Axiom HVAC, Inc. Google Microsoft Corporation Peddler Brewing Company
Individual Support $10,000+ Ron & Eva-Maria Sher
$1,000-1,999 Don & Jane Volta $250-499 Caglayan Arkan Christopher Harvey Amy Hsieh Renee Staton Up to $249 Jeff Aken Joseph Aziz Nancy Backus Don Barden Kristine Barnes Alexander B Barnett Bonnie Berk Diane Blattner Kresal Catherine Brand
Dave Bricklin Peter G Brown Megan A Buchner Michelle R Burton Mary S Campbell Te-Jui Chiu Michael Conklin Chris Covert-Bowlds Jeannie De Smet Matthew Didier Bob Donaldson Noah P Down Dennis J Doyle Tony East Chris Fallon Leah Francis Megan Gibbard Joey Gray
Donations make our work possible—Thank you!
Shani Hawley Michael R Hayes Brian Healow Juanita E Holmes Eric G Holtz Bas Hugenholtz Joan Hutchinson Matt Inpanbutr Sam K Jackson Lola I Jacobsen Hannah Jay Amanda Jensen Jay A Johnson Stephen Jones Gerry A Jones Pamela Jones-Anderson Susan I Jorgenson Elizabeth Kassoff
Michael J Keiter Taylor S Kendall Mary Kronau Bill LaBorde Tanya Lamp Joyce M LaRose Adrien Leavitt Wilson Lee Francesca Leonetti Marti Louther Hannah E Love Lisa K Lund Tobin A Maheras David J Malcolm William Mayhall Kathleen Meldrum Don Meyer Robert B Miller
Mario Miola Rudy J Moeller Conor P Morrison Doru C Nica Dick Nicholson Diana Oleskevich Jim Oleskevich Alpa Olszewski Carolyn Peterson Kelly Priestley Merlin Rainwater Jack W Rankin Harold Reeves Nyla Roach Julie A Robinson Barbara Rohde Karen A Rongren Anne-Marije Rook
Thomas G Rudd Dana Russell Deb Salls Sonia Savelli Steven Schellings Jenny Schoenberg Tyler J Smith Barbara Spindel Darin Stavish Robert Tindall Dennis Trabant Todd M Versaw Laurie S Vette Tom Weir Diane Wiatr David Wiegand Matthew Wong
NEW 10-mile route!
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