Fox Chapel Police bring back bike rodeo

Fox Chapel police say bicycle safety is important for everyone.

The department is doing its part to make sure riders are safe by hosting its second annual Bicycle Rodeo from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 29 at Fox Chapel Presbyterian Church, 384 Fox Chapel Road.

Admission is free. No registration is required.

Sgt. Craig Sorg said about 24 children participated in last year’s rodeo.

“We do this for a variety of reasons,” he said. “We want the kids to be safe on the road, learn the rules and the laws for safe bicycling. We also want the kids to get to know their local law enforcement and first responders, let them know we’re friends and here to help them.”

Families can have their bicycles inspected for free. Mechanics from Pro Bike+Run in Monroeville will be at the rodeo to do minor repairs.

Riders’ helmets will be inspected and checked for proper fit. A new helmet will be provided for free if the old one doesn’t fit properly. Helmets of various sizes were donated for the event by UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.

The rodeo will consist of several bicycle obstacle drills.

After the riders complete the course, they will get a certificate and will have their names put in a hat for giveaways including two new bicycles.

“It’s the same set up,” Sorg said of the course. “There will be different officers there that weren’t there last year.

“I’m excited. I’m ready to go. I hope we get a good turnout and the weather is good and everyone has fun.”

The police will be grilling hot dogs and providing drinks to all who come.

Local firefighters and EMS have been invited and bring their vehicles for children to explore.

More information is available on the borough website at fox-chapel.pa.us.