On yer bikes, get set, go

​More than 35 organisations have signed up for an initiative that aims to increase the number of people cycling in Jersey. Cycle Challenge Jersey 2014, which aims to increase cycling participation, starts on Monday 2 June and runs for three weeks until Sunday 22 June.

 

The Cycle Challenge is for all employees, whether they already cycle or haven’t been on a bike for years. Workplaces across Jersey will compete to see who can get the most employees cycling for ten minutes or more. People can cycle at a time that suits them but for their ride to count, they must record the details on the Cycle Challenge website.

 

 

Workplaces are competing in one of six different categories. The range of prizes includes a Kuo Electric Bike from A2B,a sea kayak tour from Jersey Kayak Adventures Ltd, Monthly Active Passes, a Total Sport gift voucher, a Garmin Forerunner 10 GPS running watch from Prosperity 24.7, unlimited monthly bus passes from Liberty Bus, wine tasting tours at La Mare Wine Estate, Team tour at Durrell conservation trust, and scrumptious cakes. This year, there are also 100 cinema tickets to win and Big Maggys and Puffin Bike Hire are also supporting this year’s Cycle Challenge
 
It's the second year of the States-run Challenge and it's hoped that 2014 will see even more people taking part, compared to last year. People who haven't cycled for a long time can get can get back in the saddle by joining try-a-bike sessions each Wednesday during the Challenge at La Fregate Café between 12 and 2.15pm. Bikes and helmets will be provided. If you want to attend, please reserve a space with Challenge Assistant, Marie Le Verdier by emailing m.leverdier@gov.je or phoning 448396. There is also a ‘night rider’ event planned for Friday 6 June, when families can cycle under the stars starting at St Aubin.

 

 

Challenge Manager, Ania Deichsel said “It’s our second year and the momentum is already growing for what promises to be an even better Challenge for 2014. It’s fantastic that so many organisations have re-registered for the event, and I’d like to also welcome those organisations who are new to the Challenge this year.

 

"Unlike most cycling events, Cycle Challenge Jersey isn’t about speed or distance, but is all about encouraging non-cyclists to hop on a bike – anywhere and anytime they like – so that they can experience the benefits of cycling first hand. Increasing cycling and active travel is important in helping to tackle congestion, reducing CO2 emissions, supporting good health, encouraging team-building and participation in sport, and promoting bike security and safety initiatives.

 

“If you haven’t signed up yet and still want to compete, don’t worry, you can register your team on the website at any time during the Challenge. Those teams that perform best will be the ones who introduce the most employees to cycle over the three week period. We’ll be monitoring their performance closely on the website. Good luck everyone!"

 

Anyone interested in participating can sign up now; it’s free to register. When registered, organisations will receive a promotion pack and ongoing support to encourage staff participation.