When the River District of Owen Sound was tasked with programming family friendly events and activities designed to promote living healthy and active lifestyles, the Wheel & Ride Safety Festival was born.

The River District partnered with the Owen Sound Police Services, the Kiwanis Club, the Optimist Club of Sydenham & District, and the Junior Optimists to create the downtown bike derby which not only teaches young riders about the importance of cycling safety, but also outfits children in the community with bikes and helmets of their own.

The program is heavily supported by bike shop owner Brandon Bragg, who not only repairs and refurbishes donated bikes all winter long in preparation for the derby, but is on location during the event to provide simple tune-ups for cyclists in need.

Participants had the opportunity to test their bikes and helmets on the cycling obstacle course created by the Owen Sound Police Services, and they were also able to meet with the local fire department for additional information on road safety.

The Wheel & Ride was honoured with the 2024 Festivals and Events Ontario Innovation Award and the 2025 OBIAA Special Events Award of Excellence. For more information, visit https://www.owensound.ca/news/posts/wheel-ride-safety-festival-happening-this-weekend-in-the-river-district/