Chris, James and Jim dig out their woggles and go back to Cubs.
An important part of what we do at Peak District MTB is education and showing how MTB is a great thing to be involved in. And a great way to do that is by helping Cubs get their Cycling Badges.
So on Monday night – despite a hasty change of venue thanks to the threat of thunder – Peak District MTB gave an excited bunch of 8 and 9 years old Cubs from 296 in Sheffield a lesson in bike skills, maintenance and security, all under the watchful eye of Akela and other Cub leaders.
During the 90 minute session we showed the Cubs how to clean a bike and maintain it, with committee member James – who also happens to run Bike Garage in Bamford – tweaking gears and brakes and keeping them roadworthy. Jim manned the security station, teaching the kids bike security and how to use various locks, while Chris oversaw the slalom course and ‘track stand’ competition (who could keep their back wheel in a 2 metre circle the longest without putting their feet down).
“We had a lovely evening with the 296th Sheffield Cub Scouts,” says Jim Cherrington. “And it was really rewarding helping the next generation of mountain bikers to achieve their cycling proficiency badges. The future of MTB looks bright in Sheffield!”
James Irwin said, “As a full-time bike mechanic, I had a great time teaching the cubs some basic bike maintenance,” says James. “My hope is that I inspired them to enjoy riding and taking care of their own bikes.”
“PDMTB came in and we did a track stand competition, skills, bike locks and bike maintenance,” said Cub Scout, 8 year old Sam. “My favourite thing was the bike locks. I learned to open and close them. I did about 10 of them! Other people should get into mountain biking. It’s good!”
We love doing things like this. Sharing why we love riding and helping others love it too. Thanks to 296 for inviting us along. See you next year.
