For most people, the words “fun” and “healthy exercise” don?t belong in the same sentence. That may change this weekend with Baltimore?s Bike Jam 2006, now in its eighth year. The Bike Jam is the largest cycling event in the mid-Atlantic, is featured on the National Race Calendar and often attracts pros from around the country.
Dr. David Scharff, a Mercy physician with a private practice in East Baltimore, is the president of Lateral Stress Velo, the club that organizes the event. The Bike Jam began when Scharff had an idea to expand the small bike race that LSV was organizing every year.
“We had an idea to expose people to bike racing and to benefit the community, andto help make cycling more popular,” he said. “We wanted to bring cycling to the community and hopefully get people interested in biking as a recreational activity as well as a competitive sport.”
The day includes races for all levels of cyclists, including juniors and children. The RecRides are leisurely rides for participants who aren?t interesting in racing, but just getting out and having a good time. The Kids? Pavilion has interactive games, art activities and the Helmet Giveaway, in which CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield will donate and distribute 500 helmets to kids. The festival also features a Bike and Health Expo as well as a screening of “The Tour Baby,” a behind-the-scenes film on the Tour de France.
The jam also includes a stunt show from two-time national trials champion rider Mike Steidley, live music from noon to 5 p.m., refreshments and an awards ceremony. One of the men?s races includes a grand prize of $10,000.
Last year, the festival boasted about 5,000 attendees, with about 750 participating in various races and rides. “It?s a really fun family festival,” Dr. Scharff said. “Everyone who comes has a great time.”
Scharff made sure to point out that the festival isn?t just for avid bikers.
“We have interactive games for kids, art activities, a helmet giveaway. We have live bands from 12 to five, lots of food and beer. It?s your typical festival. It?s a good event for community, charity and cycling. People have fun,” he said.
Bike Jam 2006
Where: Patterson Park near the Inner Harbor
When: 8 a.m.
Cost: Free and open to the public
