Paddle, bike and climb for fun May 6-15 with FRC outdoor leaders
Beautiful weather is calling us to enjoy the Lost Sierra and students with Feather River College’s Outdoor Recreation Leadership program have announced they are hosting some really cool, free events and activities May 6-15.
Open to all Plumas County residents, Bike to School and Work Week, a Plumas Paddle Fest and the Stonemaster Climbing Competition will be “chock-full of free food, fun costumes, exciting games and communitywide involvement,” said FRC student and activity planner Hayden Lampe.
“These events are a great way to bring the community together and get everyone stoked for recreational opportunities this spring,” Lampe added. “The events have so much to offer, whether it’s education or just a good time.”
With the exception of personal bicycles, any needed gear for the events will be provided onsite by the Outdoor Recreation Leadership program.
Bike to School/Work — May 6-10
Riders of all ages and abilities are encouraged to bike to school and work Monday through Friday, May 6-10.
From 7 to 9 a.m. each day on the lawn across the street from Quincy’s Natural Foods Co-op on Main Street there will be a refueling station and bike-repair workshop.
“We will have the blender bike up and running to make some human-powered smoothies and we’ll be providing locally made baked goods and coffee,” said ORL student and Bike to Work Week planner Audrey Murray. “There will be a slack line and some super fun games. Please be sure to wear your helmet!”
Participants are encouraged to check in at the refueling station to keep track of which school grade and business has the highest percentage of people biking during the week. Winners will be awarded a handmade trophy.
Plumas Paddle Fest — May 11
From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 11, at the Oakland Camp swimming hole across from the Spanish Ridge Trailhead (off Chandler Road in Quincy), ORL students will sponsor their 15th annual Plumas Paddle Fest.
Whitewater gear and boats will be on display for a hands-on opportunity to learn about whitewater safety, try out different types of boats and enjoy a free barbecue.
Life jackets and helmets will be provided as well as sea kayaks, inflatable kayaks, whitewater hard-shell kayaks, standup paddleboards, rafts and canoes.
“If you’re in the market for any of these watercraft, this is a great event to check out a variety of gear,” said FRC’s Outdoor Recreation Leadership instructor Darla DeRuiter.
Stop by anytime during this family-friendly event to get your feet wet, learn about the latest boating gear and get instruction from ORL experts.
Stonemaster Climbing — May 15
Come out to the ORL and Art Building at the FRC campus on Wednesday, May 15, where outdoor recreation students will host a Stonemaster Climbing Competition, from 5 to 8 p.m.
All skill levels are encouraged to participate. Beginners will compete from 5 to 6:30 p.m. and an advanced competition follows from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
“I’m excited to see people get all dressed up in their best 70s retro climber outfits,” said Gavin Sutter, FRC student and event planner. “Corduroy bell bottoms, patterned vests, headbands … It’s going to be great.”
Free pizza will be provided and people are encouraged to bring their own reusable water bottles to fill up.
Participants in the competition are allowed to use personal gear.
However, harnesses, climbing shoes and belay devices can also be provided by FRC.
For more information
For more information, check the social media pages for FRC Outdoor Recreation Leadership, or contact Darla DeRuiter at [email protected].
