[leadin]Jump out of the stroller and put a bike helmet on. Beginning this spring, Strider Sports, manufacturer of children’s balance bikes, will host a national racing series geared toward toddlers and young kids.[/leadin]
It’s called the STRIDER Championship Series. Races begin on May 10 in California and continue through September. There are categories for 2, 3, 4, and 5-year-olds.
Strider is using the series as a demo event as well as a fun race venue. Kids will be able to try balance bikes on site and, if desired, “compete” in the races.
According to the brand, a typical Strider race scene “has young parents and grandparents holding their breath as the bright yellow cowbells are rung and the starting gate drops. Toddlers, some still in diapers, lean forward, grasp their mini grips, kick their short legs, and embark upon a 400-foot-plus journey over obstacles from dirt mounds to wooden ramps.”
All the kid racers get to stand on an Olympic-style podium at an award ceremony. Trophies taller than some of the riders are given to top finishers.
STRIDER Championship Series Race Dates
– May 10: Vacaville, Calif.
— June 21: Rapid City, S.D.
— July 12: St. Cloud, Minn.
— August 24: Denver, Colo.
— September 19 – 21: Strider World Championship (Rapid City, S.D.)
Go to the STRIDER Championship Series site for all details.
