Gear up! PCPD's Bicycle Rodeo returns for its second year. Here are the details.

Ebonee Burrell, The News Herald
·2 min read

PANAMA CITY — Children will have the opportunity to practice bicycle safety during the upcoming bicycle rodeo.

The Panama City Police Department will host its second annual Bicycle Rodeo from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday at Oakland Terrace Park, 1900 W. 11th St., in St. Andrews.

Last year's inaugural rodeo at Tommy Oliver Stadium was so successful, police decided to make it an annual event.

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Sunday, officers will offer three on-bike safety courses where they will teach children the rules of the road and safe cycling. In addition, there will be free bicycle inspections, maintenance and riding tips, and helmet fittings.

"We're encouraging as many children that wish to attend to come because we're making sure each bicycle is fitting and functioning properly," said Sgt. Joseph Record, who helped organize the event. "A lot of kids don't get that kind of attention to their bikes, so having that opportunity is great."

The second annual Bicycle Rodeo takes place Sunday, Aug. 21, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Oakland Terrace Park.
The second annual Bicycle Rodeo takes place Sunday, Aug. 21, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Oakland Terrace Park.

The event is open to families to bring their bikes and helmets and demonstrate their handling skills in a fun, non-competitive, child-friendly atmosphere.

Record said the event's purpose is to help reduce the number of bicycle incidents in Bay County by educating riders on the roads and in neighborhoods.

"The education and safety of bicycling is what we are pushing for with this event," Record said. "We want to instill bicycle safety by going over the laws and giving tips to our young riders."

Children can look forward to plenty of entertainment provided by local businesses and organizations. There will be lots of games and activities, live music from DJ Al and free refreshments provided by Newk's Eatery. There will be bicycle and helmet giveaways.

In partnership with the PCPD, the event is coordinated by the city's Quality of Life Department, Academy Sports and Outdoors, Boy's & Girls Club of Bay County Inc., Bay District Schools, Steve's Bike Shop and Walmart.

This article originally appeared on The News Herald: Panama City police bicycle rodeo returns for 2022 in St. Andrews