Bicycling Is a Kick vs. The Bicycle Kick

I was recently watching a FIFA World Cup match and saw a player attempt a bicycle kick. For anyone unfamiliar with this acrobatic feat, a bicycle kick is when a footballer leaps backward, flips upside down, and strikes an airborne ball over their head in the opposite direction. It’s also called an overhead or scissor kick, named for the cycling‑like motion of the legs. The move demands exceptional timing, athleticism, and body control, which is why it’s considered one of the sport’s most spectacular skills.

Given the average age of our membership, I do not recommend trying this maneuver yourself—unless you’re eager to meet your orthopedic surgeon. Instead, here are a few reasons why bicycling is a kick:

• It feels like freedom — the wind, the open road, and the joy of moving under your own power.
• It boosts your mood — cycling releases endorphins, clears your head, and melts stress.
• It’s social — group rides, shared miles, and the camaraderie of the after-ride lunches build real friendships.
• It keeps you fit without feeling like work — Suddenly you’ve burned 500 calories and have fun doing it.
• It’s an adventure machine — every ride can turn into a story with new roads, wildlife, and views.
• It’s environmentally friendly — you get around without burning fuel or leaving a big footprint.
• It brings out your inner kid — that simple joy of pedaling never really goes away.

Leadership Roles

The Skagit Bicycle Club is seeking members willing to step into several key leadership positions that keep our organization running smoothly. We are currently looking for a Treasurer, Secretary, Vice President, Board Members and Newsletter Editor—all essential roles that support our rides, events, and communication. If you have the time, skills, or interest in contributing, we’d love to hear from you. Serving in one of these positions is a meaningful way to give back to the cycling community and help shape the future of the club.

Skagit Bicycle Club’s Annual Picnic

Our annual summer picnic will be held Saturday, August 8th at Riverfront Park, 901 River Road, Sedro‑Woolley. Everyone is invited, and there is no charge for the event. We’ll provide the BBQ; please bring a dessert and whatever you’d like to drink (no alcohol permitted).

Three rides will be offered—one moderate, and a social ride combined with a Welcome Ride (with an emphasis on safety, frequent regrouping and no dropped riders)—starting at 10:00 AM. Riders will return around 12:30 PM, when lunch begins. If you’re not riding, simply join us at 12:30. This year we’re introducing a few yard games as well. A little birdie told me that Steve Moe will be the man to beat at Corn Hole.

Please register early on the event calendar so we can plan accurately for the number of attendees.

Ride Routes:

• Social Route Member Appreciation Ride Social Route 21.6 miles 421 ft. · Ride with GPS -- https://ridewithgps.com/routes/40219251
• Moderate Route Member Appreciation Ride Moderate 8_24_24 · Ride with GPS -- https://ridewithgps.com/routes/48004789

Summer Concert Series

The Summer Concert Series is off to a great start. Our first ride began at Seafarers Memorial Park, where we dropped off our lawn chairs and headed out on a 24‑mile ride. Along the way, our leader Steve Jahn shared fascinating bits of local history. We returned to enjoy music from the local band Eden, along with snacks, dinner, and a few celebratory libations—having cheated death once again!

There are still three more Concert Series rides coming up, and they’re a wonderful mix of cycling, music, and camaraderie.

Upcoming Dates:

• August 7 – Anacortes, Seafarers’ Memorial Park — Chris Eger & The Powerhouse Horns
• August 13 – Mount Vernon, Skagit Riverwalk Plaza — Baby Cakes
• August 20 – Mount Vernon, Skagit Riverwalk Plaza — The Chris Eger Band

A Book About Cycling

Our very own Newsletter Editor and Graphic Designer, Anita Elder has just finished writing and publishing her own book entitled Finding Freedom on Two Wheels: How Two E-Bikes Helped Me Reclaim My Health, Confidence, and Sense of Adventure. I don’t know about you, but I’m looking forward to reading it as E-Biking has also made a big difference in my life.
Order on Amazon

Safety Tip of the Month: The “Squirrel Test”

• If a squirrel darts across the road (and it will), don’t make any sudden swerves. Squirrels are unpredictable, but you don’t have to be. Hold your line, stay calm, and let the little daredevil make its own questionable life choices.

New Members

A hearty welcome to our newest members, Rob Hays and Tom Morris.

A Surprise Reunion on the Okanagan Trestles Tour

When Anita Elder drove to Penticton, British Columbia, over the Fourth of July weekend to ride the Okanagan Trestles Tour, she expected breathtaking scenery, historic trestles, and a challenging day on the bike. What she didn't expect was hearing her name called while boarding the shuttle to the Myra Canyon trailhead.

To her surprise, fellow Skagit Bicycle Club member Steve Moe was already on the bus!

The 50-mile route lived up to its reputation, serving up rough gravel, potholes, sandy sections, and plenty of tired legs by the end of the day. Despite the challenging terrain, the spectacular views and unique rail trail made it an unforgettable adventure.

After the ride, Anita caught up again with Steve and his wife, Jolene, at the post-ride barbecue, where they had the chance to swap stories from the day's adventure.

It's always fun to discover that Skagit Bicycle Club members are exploring great rides far from home!

To read more about Anita's Okanagan Trestles Tour experience, visit her blog.