According to the IMBA, in an effort to get kids more active and help fight childhood obesity, the U.S. House of Representatives has passed a resolution officially declaring “National Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day.” The legislation is in memory of Jack Doub, a teenage mountain biker from North Carolina.
Promoted by the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA), National Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day encourages adults and cycling clubs to introduce kids to the sport of mountain biking. The day is scheduled for the first Saturday of October each year.
The House adopted House Concurrent Resolution 480 by unanimous consent on Oct. 5, 2004, just three days after IMBA celebrated the first annual Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day. Thousands of kids participated in more than 100 events nationwide and in several other countries.
Congressman Richard Burr of North Carolina introduced the resolution and Mark Udall of Colorado was a cosponsor. Earl Blumenauer of Oregon, Co-Chair of the Congressional Bike Caucus, and Joe Barton of Texas both made speeches in support of the resolution.
The legislation marks one of the few times the sport of mountain biking has received attention from the U.S. Congress.
“We're thrilled that Congress has stepped up to recognize mountain biking and kids,” said IMBA communications director Pete Webber. “This will give Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day a huge boost. Mark your calendar now for October 1, 2005.”
According to the U.S. Surgeon General, childhood obesity in the U.S. has reached an all-time high and today's youth are less active than ever before. IMBA believes mountain biking builds self-confidence and offers kids and adults an adrenaline-packed adventure while giving them an effective workout.
“Jack Doub saw the need for kids to get off the couch, get outside, and get some exercise. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation,” said Congressman Burr.
