By Ryan O’Connor
Staff Writer

Making bicycle safety a community event, the Bow Police Department hosted Bow’s first annual Bike Rodeo last weekend.

Police officer Jacqueline Pelletier, who was in charge of the Bike Rodeo, said more than four dozen children ranging in age from 3 to 13 participated in the Sunday, Sept. 17, event in the Bow High School parking lot.

“There was an excellent turnout, so we were very excited about that,” said Pelletier. “According to the parents, the kids apparently had a great time. We kept them busy with obstacle courses throughout the afternoon and took them on a bike ride around the school.”

The event also placed a large focus on safety, especially state helmet laws.

S&W Sports of Concord sponsored the event, offering bicycle brake and chain inspections and ensuring that bicycles and helmets fit children properly.

Police also handed out free hot dogs and soda.

In addition to thanking her fellow officers, Jim McIntire, Ryan Cochrane and dispatcher Paul Raymond for assisting during the event, Pelletier sends her appreciation to all the parents who brought their children out for a sunny day of safety and fun.

“Being the first time that Bow has ever done a bike rodeo, we were very pleased with the way the day turned out. The parents really came out with their kids and supported the department,” she said. “Some of the parents were already asking us what we were going to do next year, so we were pretty happy with that.”