(Portland, ME) June 24, 2024 – Portland Wheelers and the Bicycle Coalition of Maine (BCM) are teaming up at the BCM’s annual Trust To Trail Joy Ride Fundraiser this Saturday, June 29 at the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust.
The Trust to Trail Joy Ride is an 18 mile road ride from the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust along the ocean, pausing at the Rachel Carson Preserve for some “shore-cuterie” and looping back to the Trust. The ride is meant to be accessible to riders of varying levels and offers a chance to connect after the ride, with lunch, live music, and games.
“Bringing in Portland Wheelers gives us a chance to open the ride up to more people,” said Jean Sideris, BCM executive director. “We can’t wait to ride with the Portland Wheelers!”
Portland Wheelers provides the opportunity to ride to those who have limited mobility, so they can experience Maine’s great outdoors on a bike. Using specially designed electric tricycles and a team of volunteers, they provide rides in various communities as well as coming to ride at partner facilities and day programs.
“Our mission is to bring the joy of riding a bicycle to those who cannot ride on their own,” said Karen Schilling, Portland Wheelers board president. “The Trust to Trail Joy Ride is a perfect opportunity to support a partner organization and share the experience of Kennebunkport by bike.”
Portland Wheelers has six wheelchair trikes available for this ride for anyone unable to complete this ride on their own. Registration for a seat on a trike is required.
The Bicycle Coalition of Maine has been at the forefront of road safety in Maine for over 30 years and has been instrumental in creating and supporting legislation that allows for better bicycle riding, no matter whether on or off road. They also provide educational programming on bicycle riding, maintenance, and bike safety statewide, for free, through schools, and businesses.
As a non-profit, much of their funding comes through donor and member support. “This is why our Trust to Trail event is so important,” says Sideris. “This allows us to bring our community together, make new friends, and celebrate summer bike riding.”
The ride takes place Saturday June 29 starting at 10 a.m. Lunch and beverages provided by Mornings in Paris and Orono Brewing. The afterparty featuring games, raffle, and live music with the Ideal Maine Band is expected to begin around 12:30. Pre-registration closes June 23 at 9 p.m., but some tickets are available day-of to ride. To get a meal ticket to join the celebration, go to https://www.bikemaine.org/trust-to-trail-joyride-fundraiser for more details. If you or someone you know would like to participate with Portland Wheelers, please call 207-623-4511 ext 8 to register.
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The Bicycle Coalition of Maine works to make Maine a better and safer place to bike and walk. Founded in 1992, the Bicycle Coalition of Maine has grown into the leading bicycle and pedestrian advocacy group in the state. The Coalition believes all Mainers should have access to bikes and bike education, and we envision a future where Maine’s roads, public ways, and trails are safe and accessible, resulting in cleaner travel options, improved health, and stronger economic benefits for Maine communities. www.bikemaine.org
Portland Wheelers provides experiences for people unable to ride a bike by themselves. Our program gets people outdoors for therapeutic recreation, socialization, and adventure. www.portlandwheelers.org