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18th Annual Providence Bridge Pedal Draws 18,000 Cyclists

Portland Takohachi's high energy traditional Japanese drumming lifted spirits on the Marquam Bridge.

Portland, August 11th, 2013. It’s the third-largest community bike ride in the world with courses ranging from 13 to 36 miles. There are attractions along the way, like Portland Takohachi’s high energy Japanese drummers on the Marquam Bridge. Providence Bridge Pedal riders have the chance to cross of nearly every Willamette River bridge in Portland, many of which are usually off limited to bicyclists and pedestrians.

The Burnside Bridge offered a view of the “Portland Oregon” sign.

Bicyclists stopped on the top deck of the Fremont bridge to listen to the cellists.

Rick Bauman, who founded the ride in 1996, is pleased with the way it has evolved. In its first year, there were 7,500 riders; this year 18,000 took to the road.

A portion of the Providence Bridge Pedal proceeds supports community programs and initiatives that improve the health of our community. This year’s beneficiary is Play Smart Youth Heart Screenings.

Providence Heart and Vascular Institute’s PlaySmart program, offers free heart screenings to teenagers to help prevent sudden cardiac arrest.

“The Beat Goes On” marching band was a big hit with riders as they crossed the finish line.

The Bite of Oregon took place during Providence Bridge Pedal weekend. After the ride, Bridge Pedal participants received free admission to the Bite.

Our Portland Society Page team hit the road to take photos.

Save the date for the 2014 Providence Bridge Pedal, which will be held Sunday, Aug. 10.

Elisa Klein

I’ve been a professional journalist and writer since 1987, (and long-time reporter for KOIN-TV.) As a nationally published reporter, with a Master’s Degree in Journalism, I love to report positive news and information. Journalism has also connected me with another non-profit where I served as a leader; the Northwest’s biggest writer’s organization: The Willamette Writers.