OCBC Bank launches “Teach-a-Child-to-Cycle” programme ahead of OCBC Cycle event

In an effort to promote cycling as a recreational sport in Singapore, OCBC Bank has launched a “Teach-a-Child-to-Cycle” programme ahead of its annual OCBC Cycle event on 6 and 7 May. The programme aims to teach young children how to cycle, with a focus on safety concepts and basic cycling skills.

Fifteen kids aged between eight and 12 years old have been selected for the programme through Care Corner Singapore, an organization that supports children from low-income families. The kids are being coached by instructors from the Singapore Cycling Federation (SCF) at the Singapore Sports Hub’s 100Plus Promenade over three weekends in April.

According to SCF coach Caleb Low, safety is the foundation for learning cycling skills. The kids are being taught important safety concepts such as how to mount and dismount a bike safely, the importance of wearing helmets and gloves, and being aware of their cycling environment.

The kids will receive bicycles and cycling gear from sports retailer Decathlon and will eventually participate in the Mighty Savers Kids and Family Rides during the OCBC Cycle event. The event will feature three categories for the rides on 6 May, as well as the OCBC Cycle Speedway Championships and The Straits Times 20km City Ride and The Sportive 40km Ride on 7 May.

More than 20 teams are expected to compete in the OCBC Cycle Speedway Championships, and over 7,000 participants are set to take part in the rides on 7 May. The public can register online for the event until 24 April, or until all available slots have been filled.

With cycling gaining popularity in Singapore, initiatives like the “Teach-a-Child-to-Cycle” programme are crucial in promoting the sport and instilling a love for cycling in the younger generation.