The inaugural Bike to work week at Navarro & Wright was a success generating much interest from the entire office and participation from 5 employees. Dave Gassert kicked off the event and by the end of Wednesday he had logged 23.5 miles in one day of riding, including 11.5 grueling miles into a harsh headwind. Our second notable participant was Collin Gardner, logging 14.2 miles on Friday using a borrowed mountain bike in need of slight maintenance, averaging 11.2 miles per hour for the duration of his ride to and from work. Collin inspired event coordinator and long-time bike enthusiast Landon Barlow to ride his nearly antique Schwinn Traveler single speed bicycle to work. Landon was only able to ride two of a planned four days of Bike to Work Week due to unforeseen circumstances, but powered through the hills and the traffic to log a total of 22.5 miles.
Friday was the apex of the event with Collin, Landon, Paul and Joanne Navarro meeting for breakfast followed by the bike ride into the office, but not before making a victory lap around New Cumberland Borough Park. The weather was perfect and the conversation enjoyable as the group pedaled their way down Bridge Street and around the park, the ride culminating in front of the Navarro & Wright sign at the front of the office.
May is Bike month. For all those who had a deep desire to participate this week but were unable, take this opportunity to dust off your bike, pump up those tires, and enjoy this wonderful weather. The benefits of riding a bike are many. Paul said it best “now that I started, I don’t want to stop.” While riding to work may not be the most convenient method of transportation, you may find yourself more productive, happier, less stressed out, and generally in a better mood when you get home at the end of the day, not to mention the good you are doing for the environment.
See you next year for Bike to Work Week!
(author – Landon Barlow)