Great American Kid’s Bike Ride Set for July 4

Mini Uncle Sam and Lady Liberty look-alikes on training wheels will be among those to pedal in a two-mile parade for the 10th annual Great American Kids Bike Ride on July 4. The popular even draws people from outside Long Beach and kicks off at 10 a.m. at the Granada boat ramp on Granada Avenue and Ocean Boulevard in Belmont Shore.

The event is free and open to families and children of all ages. The leisurely-paced bike ride along the beach bike path will pass through Bay Shore Avenue to Second Street. Children can also enter to win $10 prizes for the watermelon seed spitting contests as well as the patriotic costume and speech contests.

Rudd and his Community Action Team are hosting the event with sponsors from Long Beach City Council member Gary DeLong and the Long Beach Parks, Recreation and Marine Department. The non profit organization puts on more than 70 events a year to “promote social well being among the general public to benefit children, animals and the environment,” according to the website. The Alabama native wanted to bring the July 4th tradition he grew up with to the Long Beach community.

More than 500 children attended last year with their families, said Rudd. Registration begins at 9:15 a.m. near the Granada boat ramp. Helmets and parent escorts are required for all children participating in the parade. Parents who wish to pre-register their children can e-mail Rudd with their child’s name and age to justin@justinrudd.com. Free parking, provided by the Long Beach Parks, Recreation and Marine Department  is available for attendees at 1 Granada Ave.