#USA #San Francisco #Bay Area #Cycling #Bike Champion

Nominate Your Bay Area Bicycle Hero

The Bay Area is already buzzing with excitement as nominations have officially opened for the prestigious Bike Champion of the Year in the Bay Area. This annual recognition seeks to honor individuals who have shown exceptional dedication to promoting cycling within their communities. The event is organized by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) and the call is out to residents to highlight cyclists from each of the nine counties in this dynamic region. Nominations will remain open until March 1, 2026, with winners set to be announced in April.

What Makes a Bike Champion?

The Bike Champions are individuals who have made significant contributions to fostering a cycling-friendly culture and infrastructure. They inspire others to consider biking as a primary mode of transportation, thus improving the quality of life for many. Andrew Fremier, MTC's Executive Director, highlights the importance of these champions, saying, "Bike Champions of the Year allow people in each of the nine Bay Area counties to lift up cyclists who are making their county a better place to live and a better place to bike."

Upcoming Celebrations

The announcement of the award coincides with the 32nd annual Bike to Work Day, set for May 14, 2026. This event launches Bike to Wherever Days, an entire month dedicated to promoting cycling as a daily activity. Throughout May, cyclists of all ages and abilities can participate in various events, challenges, and ride-alongs, all designed to encourage a healthier lifestyle and community engagement.

Pledge to Ride

Residents are encouraged to visit BayAreaBikeToWork.com to pledge to ride their bikes throughout the month of May. The site also provides details on various activities and events taking place across Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, and Sonoma counties. With over a million Bay Area residents living within five miles of their workplace, the opportunity to bike is both practical and beneficial.

Join the Challenge

In tandem with the nominations, the Bay Area Bike Challenge invites residents to contribute to a collective goal of biking 175,000 miles in May. Participants can log their cycling distances using the free Ride with GPS app for a chance to win exciting prizes, with 12 different ways to win! It's a month-long celebration of biking that appeals to all skill levels and ages, promoting health, safety, and environmental stewardship.

How to Get Involved

Here are three simple steps to participate in Bike to Wherever Days:
1. Nominate a Bike Champion - Show appreciation for those who advocate and inspire cycling.
2. Pledge to Ride - Make a commitment to bike this May.
3. Join the Bay Area Bike Challenge - Track your miles and aim for prizes while contributing to a larger community effort.

Stay Connected

For the latest updates, follow Bike to Wherever Days on Facebook and Instagram. Check BayAreaBikeToWork.com for resources like regional maps, route planners, event calendars, and energizer stations offering snacks and free goodies.

By participating in these initiatives, you not only support individual health but also contribute to the creation of safer, more inclusive streets. This May, ride your bike and join in this celebration of community spirit and sustainability!