‘Fun, Fitness and Fellowship’ Is the Motto at 4th Annual Children’s Safety Ride and Expo

“Fun, Fitness, and Fellowship” was the motto as Dr. Steven Wilson and wife Alesandra were surrounded by supporters and friends while they promoted and celebrated their non-profit organization Ride Yourself Fit’s fourth Annual Children’s Safety Ride and Expo. The non-profit organization encourages the community to become more aware of bicycle safety and health issues. The Sept. 21 celebration included a 1k and 5k bike run for adults and children, helmet inspection and a bike repair by local bicycle shops such as Don’s Bicycles, Yucaipa Bike Center and Bicycle BBQ. There was also a raffle featuring grand prizes of biking equipment, new helmets and bicycles. Micah House, an after-school program, has partnered with RYF to send the message out to the community and make residents aware of the need for helmets and pads when riding. Dianna Lawson, Program Coordinator of Micah House Chapel, is pleased with merger and feels it would benefit the community and, more importantly, meet the needs of the children. “Events like these encourage the families,” Mrs. Lawson stated. Micah House Chapel has made bicycling a part of their program, which made this partnership a good fit. Mother of two Enriqueta Garcia, a Micah House participant, stated her children Natalie and Cody had been excited about the weekend’s events and couldn’t wait to participate. There were plenty of public figures present such as Ron Mutter, City of Redlands retired civil engineer, who is not only a good friend of Dr. Wilson but a patient of his as well, not to mention an avid bicyclist. Mutter stated when Dr. Wilson thought of the organization idea, he was more than happy to climb aboard and help make the dream a reality. Another figure who was showing his support was Mark Friis, Executive Director of Bicycle Alliance and also a patient and good friend of Dr. Wilson. Friis stated, “The false pretense behind bicycling is that you have to be physically fit. It’s really about the attitude and determination of the individual and anyone could do it.” He continued, “One of the major benefits is you really do become one with nature and learn to appreciate our natural surroundings more.” The Ride Yourself Fit Performance Team was headed by Scott Whitlatch. The youngest member of the team, 18-year-old Derrick Whitlatch, was named third place state champion. However, the real stars of the show were all the kids who participated. Three-year-old Stella Sandler stole the show with her knowledge of bike safety, and the youngest participant was 2-year-old Isabela Sevick, who rode right beside her 4-year-old brother Guy during the 5k bike run. This set of siblings showed they loved the world of bicycling and the thought of sending a good message out to the community.