"Success is simple. Do what's right, the right way, at the right time."

Arnold H. Glasow offers some words that resonate with the success of Bike Cochrane.

Formed in 2018, the membership of Bike Cochrane has been growing stronger each year. They had 903 members in 2023, 200 more than the year before, and 500 more than in 2021.

Tonight, Apr. 24, the proactive organization is holding its 4th annual season kick-off with a membership drive and silent auction. It runs from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at the Legion Hall, 114 5 Ave. 

There is in excess of $15,000 worth of items to bid on that have been contributed by over 60 local business. Plus, there's raffles and a 50-50.

You'll also get a taste of this year's itinerary of activities and ongoing trail and cycling infrastructure projects.

Paul Perrault, Bike Cochrane operations manager, says momentum has been building toward tonight's event.

"We're super excited to have all our members and all our friends out for a really great event," says Perrault. "Please come and join us."

Bike Cochrane president Robert Martens says there are many reasons for their success.

First and foremost, he says they are family-oriented and address the needs of a variety of cyclists. That's clearly reflected in how 80 per cent of their memberships are for families.

Secondly, they have built a strong working relationship with the town in pursuing enhancements. He says when they identify an issue it's based upon analysis and data.

"We provide potential solutions rather than simply identifying an issue and not suggest solutions, whether it be trails or connectivity between communities."

They don't use a scatter gun approach in the programs they develop. He says it makes more sense to do five things well than 20 that need improvements.

"We are aware and cautious that we continue to do what we do well, but within limits. Everybody has a full-time job, and we have family and kids of our own. It's 100 per cent volunteer driven and that brings some limitation once in a while. We are aware and we're trying to make that sustainable for now and into the future."

Bike Cochrane’s mission is to serve Cochrane through the promotion of, and advocacy for, cycling in our community.

It's is to develop a cycling-friendly culture in Cochrane through the implementation of safe infrastructure for transportation, recreation and competition.

They participate regularly as a recognized stakeholder group in road and community planning, park (re)development, construction projects and area transportation plans, work with public and private landowners and managers to allow public cycling trails and assist in providing and maintaining access to cycle pathways, trails and facilities, for use by the public.

It's $40 for an individual membership, $80 for a family and $30 for youth.

You can learn more about Bike Cochrane here. 

Bike Cochrane poster