More than 900 individuals are set to participate in the 15th edition of the “Maestro Pedro Lozano” Bike Day in Mérida this Thursday. The event will kick off at 10:00 AM from the CEIP Antonio Machado, featuring an 8-kilometer route, as announced by Susana Fajardo, the education delegate, during a press briefing at the city hall.
This initiative, which began 15 years ago, aims to provide children with a space for community engagement and an opportunity to connect with cycling. This year”s event will see students from 22 educational institutions participating, including two schools from outside Mérida, along with teachers, family members, and volunteers from the Extremadura Cycling Federation and Formdepor.
The ride is expected to conclude at the municipal velodrome by noon. Pedro Lozano, the promoter of the event, highlighted that the Bike Day originated at the CEIP Antonio Machado and emphasized its educational, healthy, and inclusive spirit, which encourages bicycle use while fostering community interaction.
He noted that the event operates on a participatory methodology involving all organizers, making it a “pleasurable” experience where children are the “main protagonists.” Azucena Lozano, secretary of the Extremadura Cycling Federation, expressed her joy about this bicycle day, stating, “As a cyclist, it is one of the happiest days.” She added, “It fills me with pride to see how all the children mobilize on bicycles instead of relying solely on cars.”
Additionally, David Castellano, a physical education teacher at CEIP Antonio Machado, mentioned that they had been working towards hosting this event for several years and have finally achieved it. He explained that the school held a competition among students to select the winning poster for the event, which has greatly motivated them.
Finally, Juan Romero, a former director of the Education Delegation and now a volunteer, emphasized that what initially started as a sporting event has evolved into an activity with significant educational potential.
