There was ample pedal power in evidence on Friday morning as Naval Hospital Bremerton (NHB) staff members participated in the annual Bike to Work Day, May 15.

The riders rendezvoused at Silverdale, approximately 10 miles north of NHB, and rode along side streets along Dyes Inlet to the command.

"A good way to start the day," said Capt. David Collins, NHB executive officer and frequent bicycle rider and commuter.

Chief Hospital Corpsman Nathan Hagman, Bio-Medical Repair department leading chief petty officer, was a prime organizer of the event along with Aimee Aldendorf, NHB health educator. Hagman not only lead the assembled riders, but helped to coordinate several bicycle workshops during the course of the week. At the completion of the ride, the pedaling participants were then treated to a healthy breakfast in NHB's Health Promotion and Wellness department.

"We had a good turnout and everyone rode well. We all came in together, except for a few stragglers." said Hagman.

According to Aldendorf, the Bike to Work Day is in conjunction with Bike to Work Month, and provides those who take part the opportunity to get in a good social ride and meet others at the command who bicycle. The day also promotes and encourages bicycle riding as a safe and healthy exercise. The concept at NHB, as elsewhere, is also in conjunction with May as National Bike Month, originally established in 1956 and sponsored by the League of American Bicyclists and celebrated in communities from coast to coast.

The idea of having the National Bike Month and Bike to Work Day is a perfect way to showcase and promote the many benefits of bicycling, and encourage co-workers, family members and friends to take up bike riding as a cost-effective, convenient way to commute, exercise, and have fun.

"We had a really good response this year and more riders involved than last year. A fun morning for everyone," Aldendorf said.

The two Bike to Work Day workshops before the ride focused on "All Things Mountain Biking" and "Roadside Assistance," sharing tips, pointers and basic instructions to those in attendance. Along with being able to add such knowledge, the Bike to Work commuters also received swag bags with such items as water bottles and reflector lights for their participation along with the breakfast.

For more news from Naval Hospital Bremerton, visit www.navy.mil/.