Playground basics
Few people learn how to ride a bicycle in a formal setting. We mostly pick up the skill from our parents, friends or even on our own.
Ten children from Discovery College in Discovery Bay were brought up to British cycling standards at a beginners' workshop conducted by Hong Kong's only known certified biking instructor, Steve Coward.
The new course is modelled on Britain's National Standards for Cycle Training, a state scheme which has taught 5 million children how to bike safely since 2006.
'You just have to go to the cycle path from Tai Po to Sha Tin to see that most people don't ride a bike the right way,' Mr Coward said. 'They don't use the brakes, they'd rather stop with their feet, they don't know what side [of the path] to be on, things like that.'
During the first level of the two-level course held at Discovery Bay, the children were taught 'playground' basics to build confidence and become familiar with their bikes. During level two, said Mr Coward, they will be taught road safety.
'It was awesome,' said Hugo Perchard, nine. 'I could already ride my bike ok, but now my Mum will let me ride more often and further as well.'
'Ultimately I'd like to see more kids out on bikes, riding safely with common sense,' said Mr Coward, who is hoping to reach most local schools.
Earlier this week the police launched a nine-day campaign to promote safe cycling. According to the latest police figures, three cyclists were killed and 289 were injured in 333 accidents in the first three months of the year.
