Toddlers and children from as young as 18 months are set to tackle a specially built obstacle course on no-pedal Strider balance bikesat the Castle Combe Cycling Festival on the 26th August 2012.

Supporting the festivals ideals of family-fun, the Strider Adventure Zone will be opening up a world on two wheels to any child from 18 months to 5 years-old willing to give-it-a-go.

Jo Sparrow, Marketing and Events Manager at Castle Combe Circuit said: “The cycling festival is set to be an amazing celebration of all things bicycle bringing together people who already love cycling and those who are just keen to get outside and have fun on a bike. The addition of the Strider Adventure Zone fits perfectly with the event ethos of bringing cycling to all the family and we are delighted to have Strider on board. To see our youngest riders from just 18 months upwards racing and having fun alongside their friends will be quite something to see!”

No prior experience is necessary for the Strider Adventure Zone as balance bikes quickly build confidence and ability. During the day there will be timed sessions over the Strider Adventure Zone course with medals for the best times posted.

Melanie Thomas, Director of Melrose Kids Ltd (the official UK distributor for Strider) said: “This is a really exciting event which aims to encourage our younger cycling talent to have a go. We are hoping to encourage many new riders to try bike riding and share in our passion for fresh air and good wholesome outdoor fun on a bike.”

Experts agree that it’s counterproductive to teach a young child to rely on stabilisers when they first make the move to a two-wheeler. It really doesn’t give them the chance to learn how to properly balance. Balance bikes teach balance, coordination, and confidence that all develop naturally when children experience group play and friendly competition on Striders.