The Yarrow/Chilliwack chapter of Cycling Without Age launched on Saturday with its Gearing Up event at Yarrow Community School.
The group rolled out its shiny new trishaw bike which is driven by a “pilot” and carries two passengers. A trishaw is similar to a rickshaw, but with the passengers seated at the front.
Started in Denmark in 2012 in by Ole Kassow, Cycling Without Age gets a community’s senior citizens back out on bikes, regardless of their physical capabilities.
Geared towards seniors and people with mobility issues, it helps them get some fresh air and connect with the community. The volunteer-run program offers seniors trishaw rides at no cost.
The trishaw arrived in February after the local chapter ordered it in the fall. The bike comes with a blanket, rain cover, seat belts, a first-aid kit, and on-board storage area. It cost about $13,000, and the Yarrow/Chilliwack chapter is currently raising money for two more.
People wanting to volunteer as a trishaw pilot, seniors who would like to go for a ride, or anyone wanting to donate to the cause can contact: CWAYarrow@gmail.com or 604-823-0257. They also have a Facebook page.
READ MORE: New Chilliwack cycling organization focuses on seniors
READ MORE: Chilliwack introduces pilot program to get seniors on bikes
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