Cycling in the South Bay might be a little safer..…

 

“Safe bicycling is our number one priority!” says Jim Hannon, President of Beach Cities Cycling Club (BCCClub) in Redondo Beach. Looking to educate and enlighten cyclists in the South Bay, BCCClub received a grant from Beach Cities Health District to provide safety classes for the first group of “Ride Leaders.” Following extensive training, Ride Leaders will have the knowledge and qualifications to assist in educating the community about cycling safety; including adults, teens, children, bike commuters as well as all other cyclists.

As part of this new program, BCCClub held discussions with several firefighters and paramedics and a company named Protection at Location (PAL). PAL worked with firefighters to develop customized CPR and First Aid training courses for particular groups. The course included a final exam and a hands-on simulation of a ‘Rider Down’ situation. 18 Rider Leaders successfully completed this program and graduated on April 30th, 2011.

The graduation group consisted of members from BCCClub, South Bay Wheelmen, L.A. Wheelmen and IronFly. These Ride Leaders have now achieved a level of expertise that will enable them to save lives and treat injuries to cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists.

Because of on-going and recent cycling accidents in the South Bay, this type of education has become even more urgent and necessary for cyclists. These newly educated Ride Leaders will be setting a higher standard in the South Bay and the Nation.

It’s vital for everyone concerned - motorists and cyclists, that ALL rules of the road be obeyed. It is our belief that with proper education and diligent implementation and adherence to the law, motorists and cyclists will co-exist peacefully on the road.

 

Graduating class: Rick Ruotolo, Pam Leven, Roger Martin, Richard Stahlberg, Brian Seymour, Chuck Morton, Danny Hylands, Dan Urrere, Jerry Ferro, Kevin Post, Debbie Hannon, Jeanne Imbrogno, Jeff Castel, Jeff Dykzeul, Russell Dates, Steve Montalto, Vic Robinett, Ed Jones, Jim Hannon,

 

Graduating class in the background not shown Jim Hannon, foreground is Sandy Marchese (**) Bob Herrera (Fireman), Marcelle McCullough (PAL), Megan Montalto (**) and Vince DiPane (Fireman) Gladys Gravelis and Fred Fasen (**), not shown. (** the people that played a Victim for the “Rider down” simulation)

 

Thanks,

 

Jim Hannon, USA Level 1 Certified (Elite) Cycling Coach, President Beach Cities Cycling Club and Board Member of the South Bay Bicycle Coalition (310) 341-8701