Pedal party wraps up Bike to Work Week

Since the beginning of May — National Bike Month — Christy Chamberlain has ridden her bike 135 miles.

“We have made the most of bike month,” she said.

She and her husband, John, participated in the Ride for Reading program, delivering books by bicycle to Mark Twain and Fremont Elementary schools. They also rode to and from school with their neighbor, Luke Wold, 8, on Bike to School Day, as well as other organized rides.

“We have immensely enjoyed all the events that have been scheduled,” Chamberlain said.

As a conclusion of Bike to Work Week this week, cyclists took a break at the Firkin and Fox for an outdoor dance party and raffle.

It was one of the final events organized this month by Muscle Powered, a nonprofit focused on improving walking and cycling in Carson City.

Rob Webster, vice president of the Downtown 20/20 group, which is working to revitalize downtown, said he has participated in the cruiser rides.

“This is the type of activities we’d love to see more of,” he said. “I’m totally energized, totally supportive of it. Love it, love it, want more of it.”

Awards were also presented at the party, with most miles ridden in a public organization going to the Rough Riders team from the Nevada National Guard.

Tom McElroy biked to the Guard headquarters every day this week. He said it was a good way to get in his required exercise.

“We’re soldiers,” he said. “We have to pass fitness tests. Fitness is mandatory for the National Guard.”

In the private sector, the law firm of Allison MacKenzie has won the same award for the past several years.

“We had to defend our title,” said Deidre Reid. “But we lost.”

This year, the honor went to Sierra Controls LLC., which racked up 430 miles.

However, John Brooks said it’s not over.

“We’ll bring it,” he said. “Next year, it’s on.”