Navy Bike Rides set to take place in communities across Canada

Now in its third year, the Royal Canadian Navy’s emerging signature event, the Navy Bike Ride, will be held on June 8 in the National Capital Region. 

Leading up to the national bike ride, and throughout the month of June, shadow bike ride’s are taking place across the country from Newfoundland to British Columbia. 

Just a week before the national event, on May 31, CFB Halifax will be hosting their shadow Navy Bike Ride at the picturesque Salt Marsh Trail. 

With the ride open to neighbours, friends, and family, Halifax PSP is expecting more than 400 people to take part this year. 

The day will start with check-in at 7:30 at the Shearwater gym and then following a safety brief, the ride will begin at 9 a.m. 

There are three distance options for participants: the 6K, 15K, and 30K. No matter which distance they chose, all participants will have the opportunity to ride along the breathtaking Salt Marsh Trail, a trail that takes riders over the water offering views of the ocean, woods, and wildlife. 

“Instead of just focusing on one aspect of fitness, where you’re just going to the gym and working out, they’re trying to encompass the whole culture that ties into it. What you’re doing inside the workplace, with family, eating, sleeping, exercising, they’re all important components of being healthy and well. And active lifestyle is something we’re trying to push as well,” commented Miller.

“We’re spoiled with the route we have for our ride,” said Kevin Miller, fitness and sports co-ordinator, PSP Halifax and organizer of the Navy Bike Ride. 

At the end of the ride, participants can enjoy food, draw prizes, and learn from sponsor tables. 

All proceeds raised from the Navy Bike Ride, across the country, will be donated to Support Our Troops and the Royal Canadian Navy Benevolent Fund, a fund that serves families in their times of urgent need. Since its inception, the Royal Canadian Navy Benevolent Fund has helped nearly 40,000 people, giving out $16 million in grants and interest-free loans. 

The Navy Bike Ride was initiated to foster a culture that promotes an active lifestyle said Miller. 

“Instead of just focusing on one aspect of fitness, where you’re just going to the gym and working out, they’re trying to encompass the whole culture that ties into it. What you’re doing inside the workplace, with family, eating, sleeping, exercising, they’re all important components of being healthy and well. And active lifestyle is something we’re trying to push as well,” commented Miller. 

To take advantage of this opportunity to be active, support a good cause, and enjoy a beautiful ride, Miller encourages everyone in the Halifax community to take part. 

“It’s a gorgeous ride. It’s flat and easy. I encourage everyone to sign up,” said Miller. 

The CFB Halifax ride is free to take part. Donations are encouraged. All proceeds from the sale of gear will be donated. 

To register for this event, to buy gear, or check out a shadow ride near you visit the Navy Bike Ride website.