A group of 27 riders from Union recently participated in the annual Bike to Work Day Workplace Challenge. Sponsored by the Capital District Transportation Committee (CDTC), the event promotes bicycling as a fun way to commute to work for employers in Albany, Rensselaer, Saratoga and Schenectady counties.
Nearly 350 people registered for the event. They represented more than 3,500 bicycle miles, replaced about 148 gallons of fuel and , 2,900 lbs of CO₂, and burned about 159,000 calories.
The College’s team picked up a trophy for the organization with the most participants in Schenectady County. The trophy is now on display on the lower level of the Wold Center.
Gail Golderman, librarian for digital services at Schaffer Library, had the longest commute, making the 52-mile roundtrip from her home in Albany. She’s been commuting to work since November. Avid cyclist and team captain Stephen Romero, associate professor of psychology, was next at 48 miles.
“I really like this event because it introduces others to the benefits of commuting by bicycle,” said Romero, who commutes regularly to campus. “The great thing about riding to work is that it is a way to get a workout in first thing, and it allows me to organize my thoughts and goals for the day. I do a good deal of thinking on the bike.”
The College will keep the trophy until next year’s competition.