Bay Area Counties Invite Nominations for Bike Champion of the Year
Bike to Wherever Days begin May 1; Bike to Work Day on May 14
SAN FRANCISCO – Nominations are currently being accepted for the Bay Area Bike Champion of the Year. Residents across the nine counties in the Bay Area are encouraged to nominate cyclists who have made significant contributions to promoting biking as a preferred transportation option. Those chosen as Bike Champions inspire others to embrace cycling in their daily lives.
The deadline for nominations is fast approaching on March 1, with winners set to be revealed in April. The awards are part of an exciting lead-up to the 32nd annual Bike to Work Day, celebrated on May 14, 2026.
According to MTC Executive Director Andrew Fremier, “These nominations highlight individuals in each county who enhance the quality of life and promote cycling in their communities. It’s a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge their hard work.”
Each May, the Bay Area celebrates Bike to Wherever Days, which encourage cyclists of all ages and abilities to engage in a variety of events and compete for prizes throughout the month. This year, the initiative promises to be more engaging, with events that foster a vibrant biking culture.
Pledge to Ride Your Bike
Residents can visit BayAreaBikeToWork.com to commit to riding their bicycles throughout May. The website provides detailed information about activities and events happening in Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, and Sonoma counties.
Over a million residents in the Bay Area live conveniently close to their workplaces, making it an ideal region for biking. The Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) and local partners encourage everyone to choose biking for work, errands, or school trips, as a way to engage with Bike Month positively.
The Bay Area bicycle coalitions encourage participants to embrace riding during Bike Month, highlighting health benefits for both individuals and communities. “Bike Month welcomes individuals of all ages and abilities, and every little contribution makes a difference. Additionally, you may snag prizes from local bicycle coalitions around Bay Area Bike to Work Day,” shared Marcella Aranda, MTC Public Information Officer.
For more information on regional biking resources, including maps and event calendars, visit BayAreaBikeToWork.com. Cyclists can also locate Energizer Stations where they can enjoy snacks and freebies, including this year’s special tote bag for Bike to Wherever Days.
Participate in the Bay Area Bike Challenge
Join the Bay Area Bike Challenge this May, with an ambitious goal of cycling 175,000 miles. Residents from all nine counties are encouraged to log their cycling distances with the free Ride with GPS app for a chance to win various prizes, with multiple ways to participate.
Getting Involved in Bike to Wherever Days
Steps to Participate
1. Nominate an individual who has significantly improved the biking culture in your community.
2. Pledge to ride your bicycle throughout the month of May and encourage others to do the same.
3. Participate in the Bay Area Bike Challenge by logging your cycling miles.
Follow the Bike to Wherever Days discussions on social media for ongoing updates and community engagement.
About Bike to Wherever Days
Bike to Wherever Days is presented by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), the regional planner and coordinator for transportation initiatives. This year, the event receives additional support from multiple local partners dedicated to improving the cycling experience in the Bay Area. Winners of the Bike Champion of the Year award will be celebrated and rewarded with prizes from MTC and its partners.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Bay Area Bike Champion nominations?
Nominations are open to recognize individuals who promote cycling throughout the Bay Area and positively impact their communities.
When do nominations close?
The nomination period ends on March 1, with winners announced in April.
What is Bike to Work Day?
Bike to Work Day is a celebration of cycling as a means of transportation, scheduled for May 14 this year.
How can residents participate in Bike to Wherever Days?
Residents can nominate champions, pledge to ride, and take part in the Bay Area Bike Challenge.
Why is biking encouraged in the Bay Area?
Biking promotes healthier lifestyles, reduces traffic congestion, and fosters sustainable living within communities.
