Motorists in the Kootenays can expect to see a significant number of cyclists on the highways this week as hundreds of people from across Canada and the USA gear up to take part in the 16th annual WeCanId ride.
The annual Rotary-supported event will see 131 road cyclists take on the paved roads circling the Selkirk Mountains of Washington, Canada, and Idaho—hence the name WeCanId.
The group will enter the Kootenays on September 10, departing from Colville, Washington, and travelling to Rossland.
On September 11, they will head to Nelson, where they plan to stay for two nights. After enjoying Nelson, they will continue their journey to Creston on September 13.
The final leg of their trip will take place on September 14, when they cross the border, leaving Creston and heading back to Sandpoint.
Riders from three provinces and 24 states are taking part. Executive Director of the International Selkirk Loop, Stephanie Sims, said motorists can expect to see signage on the side of the highways directing the cyclists where to go.
They will be riding on the side of the highway, and Sims asks drivers to ensure they give the cyclists space, adding that the cyclists have also been directed to show consideration to vehicles on the road.
Additionally, she reminds motorists that in B.C., vehicles are required to maintain at least a 1.5-metre distance when passing cyclists on roadways where the speed limit is higher than 50 km/h, and a one-metre distance when the speed limit is lower.
“We just want to make sure that everyone is safe on the road—both vehicles and cyclists. So cyclists need to stay on the side and give consideration to the cars, but drivers should also provide space for the cyclists as they pass them.”
The WeCanId ride is an annual event held in partnership between the International Selkirk Loop and Rotary Clubs along the route, including the Rossland Rotary, Castlegar Sunrise Rotary, and Nelson Daybreak Rotary. The ride aims to raise funds for each club’s individual community service projects.
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