Dozens of members of the CFB Esquimalt community gathered at Ecole John Stubbs Memorial School Saturday (June 3) morning for the base’s annual Navy Bike Ride.

Riders had a choice of two different ride distances depending on how much fun on two wheels they wanted to have – a 4 km ride through the Belmont Park neighbourhood, or a 28 km ride through the wider Colwood community.

Leading up to the 10:30 a.m. start or the 4 km ride, kids played on a bouncy castle set up on the school grounds, while other participants checked out information booths set up by various groups within the navy and outside, including Parks Canada, Soldier On, the Victoria Royals, and Triple Shot Cycling Club.

Just before the start, the Naden Band performed Oh Canada to help inspire the riders, and organizers called everyone to the start, with the young riders in the 4 km ride being escorted through the streets by a pair of military police vehicles.

Donations were collected to benefit three organizations dedicated to the well-being of the Royal Canadian Navy members, former sailors, and their families. Proceeds from the event go to the Royal Canadian Naval Benevolent fund, Support Our Troops and Soldier On.

READ MORE: SD62 elementary students hit the track in Colwood

CFB EsquimaltColwoodRoyal Canadian NavyWest Shore