"I want to ride my bicycle. I want to ride my bike."

-- Bicycle Race by Freddie Mercury

Kids ages 5 to 16 will be able to do just that on Sunday, Aug. 16 during the inaugural "Ride The Ridge" time-trial mountain bike race at Memmen Ridge Open Space in Castle Rock. The race is being sponsored by the Castle Rock Parks and Recreation Department and Castle Rock Bicycle Co.

"There are so many wonderful open spaces in Castle Rock and thanks to the dedicated Parks and Rec staff and numerous volunteers, there are miles of trails to access and enjoy those unique parks," said Mark Neel, president of Castle Rock Bicycle Co. "We wanted to create a fun event that would showcase Memmen Ridge Open Space and its network of trails. We hope Ride The Ridge not only becomes an annual event for kids but also highlights a jewel right in the middle of town."

This areaprovides a quick escape into forested open space from nearby downtown Castle Rock. The 43-acre parcel is located south of South Street Elementary School and can be accessed from a paved trail at Oman Road. The willows and cattails in the riparian area quickly change to a mature ponderosa pine forest on the ridge's north-facing slope. A short trip to the top of this ridge can provide views of the southern areas of town.

Registration is $25 and includes a T-shirt and goodies. Prizes will be awarded to winners in each category. Age classifications (5-6, 7-8, 9-10, 11-12, 13-14, 15-16) are determined by the age of your child in 2009 regardless of the month. Race distances and routes will differ according to age classifications.

Volunteers are needed to monitor the time-trail race. If you are interested in helping out, contact Mark Neel at 303.688.1722 or mhneel@castlerockbikes.com. For more information on the race, contact ubridgman@crgov.com.