As of last year, I had done all of the routes for Bridge Pedal. What’s left to do? How about another go-around?
A coworker tipped me that volunteering at the registration pickup booth the week of the ride will allow me to ride for free. The fee isn’t expensive at $60 for the Fremont Express, the longest ride, but getting to ride for free and a chance to volunteer had its appeal.
I also volunteered to provide photography and videos to promote the event. Anything to get people to bike more and drive less.
The ride was on the last day of my work’s wellness challenge, so I registered for the longest ride again and I got up earlier this year to enjoy the sunrise atop the Fremont Bridge. For better and worse, there was a thick cloud cover that kept the day cool but also prevented the sun from highlighting the bridges until the end of the ride.
The bubble machine continued to elicit joyful cheers and celebrations. Riders of all ages appreciated the bubbles as I passed them and I made a special point to cross over the lanes if there was a kid rider. I may have to invest in a different bubble machine next year, one that can shoot bubbles out the back of my bike instead of from the side.
I really had a fun time, even though it’s my sixth time with Bridge Pedal. I got to meet Rick, the person who came up with the idea, and his equally-friendly volunteer team. They’re incredibly friendly and I can see why this event is beloved.
Here’s to next year, where I hope Jenni can join me and we’ll be the Bubble Brigade™.