When I first started blogging, I often featured events in and around the Greater Toronto Area that may be of interest to my readers – especially if they’re family friendly and an affordable way to show the kids a good time. Thing is, over the years my readership expanded, and I felt kind of weird just speaking to my local friends.
However, I’ve decided that this year, I’d like to (somewhat) return to my roots and feature 1-2 local family events per month. Just my way of staying in tune with my community and keeping my blog relevant for long-time fans.
Now my first featured event is something I know boys of all ages dream of – joyriding with bike pros.
WHAT – Specialized is inviting kids of all ages from across the GTA to ride with three pros who are pushing the limits and redefining what it means to get air on their bikes. Daniel Dhers, Mike Montgomery and Darren Berrecloth are three of the top Freeride Mountain Bikers (BMX, Dirt Jumps, Big Mountain) and GTA kids will have a chance to ride with their idols at Joyride 150 – Canada’s best and most popular indoor mountain bike park.
WHEN – Friday January 18, 2013: 7pm Screening of “WHERE THE TRAIL ENDS”, Q&A with Darren Berrecloth
Saturday January 19, 2013: 10:00am – Ride with Specialized Athletes; 3:00pm – Autographs
Sunday January 20, 2013: 10:00am – Ride with Specialized Athletes; 3:00pm – Bike Giveaway
WHERE – JoyRide 150 Indoor Bike Park, 150 Bullock Drive, Markham, ON L3P 1W2
COST – Day Pass – Weekend (Sat-Sun) $28; 2-Day Weekend Pass (Sat+Sun) $44
*There is a one-time-only $5 start-up fee the first time you register at Joyride150 – this covers the cost of the waiver, processing, photo, and club card (which never expires!)
GOOD TO KNOW – A Bike and a Helmet is required to ride but there is also equipment for rental. There is something for riders of all levels at Joyride 150… from beginners to experts. Sections, trails, lines & jumps will all be marked according to the ski trail system: GREEN CIRCLE for beginner, BLUE SQUARE for intermediate, and BLACK DIAMOND for expert. It is expected that you will use good judgment and ride within your skill level.
Here’s some footage from last year’s event. I’m not a pre-pubescent boy, but I can certainly see what the fascination is. Those are some cool tricks!
the tricks they can do always amazes me
Me too :) And they terrify me too!
Hello, Lena.
I was not going to check-out this article because I am in in your area but I am glad I did I like the video. Helps to give people who are thinking of going an idea of what to expect and a look at the indoor bike park, too. Glad you mentioned this event I have never heard of it nor did I know there were indoor bike parks. The photo at the beginning of the article is great. Thank you, Lena.
Thanks Michelle! Happy I was able to give you an inside peek!
This is a really good article and I think that if kids love doing it, that is fine, but this type of bike riding freaks me right out. To me, serious injuries could happen. I know, I’m thinking as a mother! We have a few of these bike parks in my city and I know that they are safe and I always see kids with their helmets and other gear on but I just can’t help thinking that I don’t want my kids to do this, but I won’t tell them that because then they will want to do it! It is unbelievable what people can do with their bikes though. I can’t imagine how hard this must be to learn. This must take skill and determination to learn the stunts that they do.
Completely agree with everything you said Lee – while I think the tricks are cool, no way no how will my little boys be doing this, LOL! If they inherited my coordination, they are DOOMED.
Too bad we live too far away!
Really cool! We have a couple outdoor skate parks but Im sure an indoor one would be a hit here too.
Oh cool!
Indoors is a great idea. Although I can’t do any tricks with my bike lol
Hahaha neither can I, Shirley. Actually, it’s been a long time since I’ve even been on a bike – need to change that this year!
I used to be a daredevil but not sure if I could do half the things I used to. Looks like loads of fun though.
Love that you were once a daredevil Jennifer!
I wish we had something like this around here! Would be fun to take my boys to in a couple years!
My boys are a little young, that’s why we opted not to go. But I think that slightly older kids would love it!
My son would love this! He has no fear and would try many of these tricks.. Indoor makes it great that you don’t have to wait for the weather.
This looks like a great place for the kids to escape the winter and blow off some energy :) thanks for sharing.
That looks like so much fun! And great for winter, when we can’t get out on our bikes as often as we’d like!