BikeTexas KidsKup races are finished for 2012! Over 100 kids and their bikes came out for the five fall races across the state; 276 kids participated through the whole year.
KidsKup helps address childrens’ decreasing amount of physical activity. Children and adolescents should get 60 minutes of physical activity a day, but many Texas children are falling short of this target. When children participate in KidsKup, they learn how much fun physical activity can be, and start to look forward to being active instead of seeing activity as a chore.
Additionally, children gain confidence as they learn to ride the course, as well as lessons in good sportsmanship. Both of these benefits paid off for one young rider at last year’s Coldspring ride: she was holding back and sitting with her parents until one of the more experienced young riders offered to take her out and show her the course. Once the timid rider went through the course a couple of times, she lost her timidity and rode the course over and over. Two weeks later at Pace Bend, she hit the course again, this time with the confidence of a seasoned rider.
Pictures from the KidsKup races tell the story of children out in the fresh air, socializing and riding. Their experiences will stay with them and influence their choices over time: they learn that physical activities are fun, and that they can participate even if they aren’t “athletes.” Exercise is hidden in the package!
Come join us at the spring KidsKup races, beginning on February 9 in Smithville. KidsKup is always free and open to anyone age 12 and younger who can ride a bike! Strider bikes and training wheels are allowed. All children must wear helmets and participate in the safety clinic before the race. For more information, check out the BikeTexas KidsKup site. Stay tuned as we announce more spring events on our event schedule!
