The annual bike rodeo was held today at the Endicott Estate.Highlights included an obstacle course around the parking lot, a slow bike race, and a chance to run under the water from a fire hose set atop a fire truck.
The event has been running for more than 20 years and this year was organized by the Police Department’s new youth resource officer, Ron Pucci.Campers in the Recreation Department’s summer playground program biked over for the event and were joined by other youths from around town.
Playground staff painted faces of participants, and cooked a hot dog lunch for all attendees.The food was provided by Chuck Wagon Catering, and hoodsies were donated by Pilgrim Ice Cream in Roslindale.
Dedham Savings also purchased t-shirts on which many bikers affixed sticker badges declaring them honorary police officers. A technician from Dedham Bike and Leather was also on hand to give tune ups and perform minor repairs.
After lunch Recreation Director JuJu Muccaccio drew raffle tickets for four free bicycles and helmets.Two of the bikes were donated by Toys R Us, and police officers and firefighters each donated one bike and helmet.
The day ended with the Fire Department’s Ladder 1 providing a welcome spraying of water for kids to run through as they enjoyed one of the first 80 degree days this summer.
