Submitted by John Guilfoil for the Bedford Police Department
Police Chief Robert Bongiorno would like to remind drivers on town streets and riders in the 11th annual Pan-Mass Challenge Bedford Kids Ride on Saturday, June 13, to be safe while they cycle to fight against cancer.
More than 450 kids from Bedford and the surrounding communities will be coming together at John Glenn Middle School to participate in this annual event, with money raised going to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and its Jimmy Fund. All young riders will be put in a group with 10-12 other children and an adult volunteer.
“As in years past, we hope everyone participating in this year’s Pan-Mass Challenge Bedford Kids Ride has an enjoyable, yet safe time while on the road,” Chief Bongiorno said. “Residents, please keep an eye out for little ones, and we encourage all to head outside and support our young riders.”
Every rider should follow a few safety guidelines:
- ride a route that is right for your abilities;
- ride slowly, being aware of traffic on town roads;
- ride on the correct side of the road and on sidewalks when noted, staying with your group and telling riders behind you your intentions;
- and of course – make sure you wear a helmet that fits!
Drivers on town roads are reminded to watch, slow down and be patient for the kids who have raised close to $1 million, with sponsors, in the past 10 years to fight back against a disease that affects so many. In addition, Railroad Avenue and McMahon Road will be closed from 9:30 a.m. until 12 p.m.for the occasion.
To incorporate all ages, several routes have been set up for children:
- Wally’s Way is an obstacle course for toddlers on tricycle
- Yawkey Way is a half-mile route around John Glenn Middle School meant for kids on training wheels
- The Green Monster is a three-mile ride
- Big Papi is a five-mile ride meant for more experienced riders
- The Big Papi Slam is 10 miles long
- Finally, Fenway is a 12-mile, off-road route that travels all the way to Concord meant for students who will be in the sixth grade next year or older.
So stay safe, and plan your route to make sure that your ride on Saturday is a safe one!
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