YMCA hosts bike safety event

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GREENVILLE — Bike-riding kids in the area got a safety-conscious treat Monday evening at the Darke County YMCA.

Roger and Christina Bowersock of Rocketship Sports, an amateur sports corporation based in Greenville, handed out free bicycle helmets to youngsters at the event.

Children attending also had their helmets specially adjusted to ensure a proper, and safe, fit.

YMCA Member Services Director Shanna Good said the event was largely spurred on by three recent incidents of bike-riding children being struck by vehicles. Two of the three boys died; none were wearing protective head gear.

“Word has spread through the community,” she said, noting the better-than-expected turnout.

Overall, 91 kids received helmets, ranging in size from extra small to medium-large.

Rocketship ran out of extra-small helmets during the event, and has placed an order for 13 more for those children who did not get one. These can be picked up at the YMCA when delivered.

Christina Bowersock said they were “hopeful” for a good turnout, and that it exceeded their expectations.

“We’ve had events like this in the past and we had trouble giving five helmets away,” she said. “We’re very happy with the turnout.”

Roger Bowersock said, “We buy helmets every year. There were some left over from our last event, so we purchased another 75. Another 25 helmets we ordered didn’t make it in time.”

Joining Rocketship at the event was Bob Bitner of Greenville’s Countryside Bike Shop. He was on hand to inspect and repair bicycles brought in, with his services also performed free of charge.

Good expressed her appreciation for all who contributed their time and resources.

“This is the first time Rocketship Sports has sponsored the event in Greenville. Other than the location, they provided everything,” she emphasized.

Good added, “They have a passion to get a helmet to every child. Their passion fits the YMCA’s mission of safety and fun.”

Rocketship Sports is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit company. Those interested in donating to the organization’s bike helmet safety initiatives are encouraged to email the group at [email protected].

Roger Bowersock of Rocketship Sports adjusts a bike helmet for a child at Monday’s bike safety event held at the Darke County YMCA.
https://www.dailyadvocate.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/web1_IMG_2471-RGB.jpgRoger Bowersock of Rocketship Sports adjusts a bike helmet for a child at Monday’s bike safety event held at the Darke County YMCA. Erik Martin | The Daily Advocate

More than 100 young people received free helmets and had their bicycles safety checked at an event held at the Darke County YMCA Monday evening.
https://www.dailyadvocate.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/web1_IMG_2476-RGB.jpgMore than 100 young people received free helmets and had their bicycles safety checked at an event held at the Darke County YMCA Monday evening. Erik Martin | The Daily Advocate

A young girl has her helmet adjusted by Christina Bowersock of Rocketship Sports. Helmets were provided free of charge at the event.
https://www.dailyadvocate.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/web1_IMG_2479-RGB.jpgA young girl has her helmet adjusted by Christina Bowersock of Rocketship Sports. Helmets were provided free of charge at the event. Erik Martin | The Daily Advocate
Locals offer free helmets, bike repairs to youngsters

By Erik Martin

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Erik Martin may be reached by email at [email protected] or by phone at 937-569-4314.

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