Traffic going in and out of the Maritime Heritage Centre varied on June 4, from foot traffic to the two-wheel variety, as Campbell River gathered for the Greenways Loop Day.
“We’ve got the whole goal of celebrating our forests, rivers and all the beautiful things within this community,” said Laurel Cronk, who is the chair of the Campbellton neighbourhood association and one of the event’s organizers.
After a few opening comments by event emcee Cleo Corbett, participants were led in some warm-up stretches by Aleeta Clark of Campbell River’ Session Spin studio. From there, participants were allowed to walk, run, or bike throughout the 28 kilometre loop.
“We have at least 315 riders that showed up this morning,” said Cronk, wearing the green Greenways Loop day t-shirt that a number of riders wore. “What will happen is that people may just jump on later on. This event is all about promoting healthy living and active transportation within our community.”
Throughout the loop, participants were able to stop at stations representing Forest, located at Hilchey and Dogwood St., River at the Tyee Spit, Ocean at the Seawalk and Simms Creek, and Greenway at Jubilee Parkway and Dogwood. Refreshments at the stations such as ice cream and popsicle were available. Once returning from their city-wide journey, participants were able to enjoy some barbecue and a beer garden, with proceeds benefitting the Campbell River Community Foundation and the Campbellton Neighbourhood Association.
“This event is all about raising awareness about a major artery of our city,” said Kristen Rudyk, representing West Urban Development, one of the event’s 17 sponsors. “I’m here working, but my husband is biking with our other dog. This event put on today epitomizes the idea of building community.”
The day also featured participants who just wanted to get out on such a nice day, whether or not an active lifestyle is part of their daily living.
“The weather is just perfect,” Mike Fitchio of Sayward said. “To just be able to walk safely on a track with a pre-determined schedule with stations is great. I wish I had my bike or scooter on me, but I figure I’d just use my feet to get around.”
Renee Hamel, who was riding with husband Tyler Rochon, said she was surprised by the large turnout.
“We always do this event,” said Hamel. “This is the largest one I think I’ve seen, there’s a lot of people here today. We’re heading up to the Tyee station, and of course we’re looking forward to the beer gardens afterward.”
For more on the greenways loop group, you can visit http://www.facebook.com/GreenwaysLoop.
Edward Hitchins
edward.hitchins@campbellrivermirror.com
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