Bike Rodeo presented by Families First with aid from Windsor police

Const. Nick Dupuis from the Windsor Police Service - Amherstburg Detachment helps a young rider over a ramp during the June 28 bike rodeo at Families First Funeral Home.

The annual Amherstburg Bike Rodeo came back to town last Sunday with food, fun and, of course, bicycle safety offered.

Presented in partnership with Families First Funeral Home and the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment, the June 28 event brought families to the parking lot of the funeral home where they were guided through a course and given advice on safe riding, fitted for helmets, given a bite to eat, tours of Amherstburg fire trucks, a bike raffle and more. Bike Windsor-Essex, the Brain Injury Association, the Rotary Club of Amherstburg, Flow Cafe & Bikes and the fire department were joined by a large number of sponsors in presenting the event.

Const. Nick Dupuis, the community relations officer with the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment, said the turnout was good and a lot of children came out. He gave Families First credit for leading organizational efforts.

“It seems to be getting a little bit better every year,” said Dupuis.

Dupuis said the young children that turn out know how to ride when they get there but are much improved after they leave.

Courtney Wilkinson-Lightfoot, general manager with Families First, said they were thankful for the support from all of the community organizations as well as the large number of sponsors. She estimated 100 kids passed through.

“As always, we’re proud to be part of the community,” said Wilkinson-Lightfoot. 

Wilkinson-Lightfoot added they have been presenting the bike rodeo for at least a decade.

Taydem Young gets his helmet fitted by Rachel Olsen of the Brain Injury Association.

“It’s been a privilege to work along with Const. Nick Dupuis the last few years,” she said. “He’s been fantastic to work with.”

Families First Funeral Home wanted to make sure it is a free event for families and Wilkinson-Lightfoot said the sponsors ensured that happened.

The funeral home plans to continue presenting the Amherstburg Bike Rodeo for years to come, as they want to ensure children ride safely and simply to give back to the community.

“It’s the beginning of summer. They need to learn how to ride safely,” said Wilkinson-Lightfoot.

Bike Rodeo presented by Families First with aid from Windsor police

By Ron Giofu