Initially a promotion for his business Cranky's Bike Shop, 10 years later Heath MacKenzie's annual event developed into a free opportunity for local youth to partake in a sport they love. 

"We had paid to get riders out and it was more of a show, but we wanted it to be more about the kids and about participation and for kids who might not necessarily be part of a sports team," explained MacKenzie. 

The annual Bike Jam celebrated its 10th year on Saturday, June 22, at the bike tracks in the Aldergrove Athletic Park. 

Youth could race and jump in various courses catered to cycling, scootering, skateboarding, and more. 

"We want to have something [youth] could look forward to every year and feel appreciated," MacKenzie said. 

Thanks to the support of local businesses and organizations, the event is able to continue bringing local youth together to have fun, he added. 

"It is great to see young people out on bikes of all sizes and conditions, riding their hearts out and feeling valued by the rest of the community," he said. 

There were also multiple prizes for riders to win, plus a scooter giveaway by Havoc Scooters and bike giveaway by Cranky's Bike Shop at the end of the event. 

The Bike Jam is annually held at the local athletic park, which is designed to accommodate all ages and rider abilities, and includes features for beginners and advanced riders including return hill with entry drops, a series of progressive jump lines, wood skills features, BMX Pump Track and mini 4x course with wall ride.