Cyclists of all ages are encouraged to sign up for the city’s Amazing Disaster Rally on May 9.
The event, now in its second year, has participants work their way through a 25-kilometre route stretched out across New Westminster. Eight check points are scattered throughout the course, each promoting emergency and safety preparedness.
Whether it’s moving supplies or filtering water from the Fraser River, organizers told the Record the tasks are meant to get people thinking about the important role cyclists play in emergency response.
“In a real emergency, we can use them, in the sense they can transport goods from one area to another, they can transport people back and forth, especially in those areas vehicles can’t get into,” said city spokesperson Cory Hansen. “They can go over trees and stumps, which cars, at that point, cant.”
Hansen added the course is a bit more challenging this year, with a hill or two thrown into the mix.
“We had lots of people tell us they wanted a longer route and some said it was too easy, so we took that into consideration this time around,” she said. “But we’ve definitely changed things up this year, so people who are doing it for the second time can expect a few surprises.”
The rally, however, is not a race. Participants receive points based on how well they do at each checkpoint. Last year, cyclists were given six eggs (each representing a point) to carry from start to finish. The goal was to ensure no eggs were broken during the commute.
Another station involved going into a building, locating all the fire detectors and fire extinguishers and marking them on a map. To get even more points, cyclists could also bring materials from home (one participant hauled a 20 foot extension ladder behind his bike).
“It’s very interactive and hands-on, versus just reading literature constantly,” said Const. Wendy Bowyer. “Physically doing these things is a different story.”
The 2014 event was a success, according to Hansen and Bowyer, who said even after registration was capped at 50 participants, there was still a waitlist. This year, up to 75 cyclists can pre-register.
“We still need volunteers to help us out. The more participants we have, the more manpower we need. There’s tons of stuff to be done, like helping with set-up in the morning, to running our mobile command unit,” Hansen said.
Cyclists must be 19 years of age or older, with the ability to carry a minimum amount of cargo by way of backpack, pannier bag or carrier. Bikes must be “human-powered” and will be inspected by organizers prior to departure. A proper helmet must also be worn at all times.
Riders are asked to stay on the city’s bike routes, as roads will not be closed down during the event.
To register for The Amazing Disaster Rally, which starts and ends at Queen’s Park, visit newwestcity.ca. Deadline is April 10. If you’re interested in volunteering, email [email protected] or call 604-515-3794 for more information.
