Hundreds pedal to ninth annual Bike Safety Rodeo

With free helmet giveaways, bike tuneups and repairs, a cycling safety course and more — the ninth annual Bike Safety Rodeo had everything a young cyclist could ask for.

Hosted by River’s Edge Hospital in coordination with the St. Peter Police Department, the rodeo drew hundreds of new and returning families eager to enjoy a morning of cycling fun on Saturday.

In a shared effort to keep the community safe, the Police Department and River’s Edge distributed 195 bike helmets to children ages 17 and under.

“The St. Peter Police Department and the hospital, we really have the same goal of wanting to keep families safe and giving away free bike helmets is a way to do that,” said River’s Edge CXO Stephanie Holden.

Beyond distributing helmets to keep children’s noggins safe from injury in the event of an unfortunate crash, the rodeo promoted cycling safety with a bike safety course operated by Greater Mankato Bike and Walk Advocates. Kids could bring their own bikes or use a rental, and practice skills like stopping for stop signs, weaving between cones and cycling in a figure-eight.

The fair also featured cycling-themed booths by Nicollet County Public Health, St. Peter Public Library, the St. Peter Recreation Department and the St. Peter Skate Park Committee and Mankato Area BMX.

Kids also had the opportunity to explore squad cars, fire trucks and more in the vehicle fair.

“The great thing too is we have families that show up that still have their helmets from last year. So they’re still coming for everything else,” said Community Service Officer Janet Ireland. “The bike safety course, licensing. That’s nice to see for us and when they’re returning with their helmets then we know that’s impacting our community.”