EAT Cycling's Cycling Fun Day in Largs

Yesterday morning, Broomfields was buzzing. Families turned up from across Largs for our Cycling Fun Day — a joint event with the Largs Community Development Trust — and honestly, it was one of those days that reminds you why you got into this in the first place.

We had two courses set up on the grass: balance bikes for the little ones aged 2–5, and a race circuit for older kids of mixed abilities. Watching children who'd never raced before come across the finish line with a massive grin on their face — that never gets old.

Around 60 children took part across the day. The first kid on the course was the son of one of our club members — he just loved racing round it. And then there was a wee boy on a balance bike who must have gone round about twenty times. That's what it's all about.

Why days like this matter

Getting kids on bikes early makes a real difference — not just for fitness, but for confidence, independence and just getting outside. Cycling is one of those skills that stays with you for life, and the earlier children get comfortable on two wheels, the better.

That's something I feel strongly about, and it's why days like yesterday aren't just a bit of fun — they're part of something bigger I'm working towards.

Building an under-18s branch

Events like this strengthen my drive to establish a proper under-18s branch at our club. There's clearly an appetite for it in Largs — you only had to look at how many children turned up yesterday to see that. It's very much part of the plan — watch this space.

The goal is to give young riders in North Ayrshire a proper pathway — structured, supported, and genuinely fun. Junior cycling deserves the same level of support as any other youth sport, and I want EAT Cycling to play a part in making that happen locally.

The right kit for young riders

If yesterday sparked something in your child and they're ready to take it further, it's worth knowing that getting the right bike makes a huge difference — especially for younger riders still developing their confidence and technique.

We stock everything you need here at EAT Cycling for young cyclists, covering everything from first pedal bikes right through to bikes for serious junior riders. Merida build bikes with the same attention to geometry and quality as their adult range — just scaled properly for smaller riders, rather than being an afterthought.

If you're looking for equipment we carry helmets, clothing, accessories and components. If you're not sure where to start, come into the shop and I'll point you in the right direction. There's no such thing as a silly question when it comes to getting a child set up on the right bike.

Thanks

A big thank you to everyone who came along yesterday, and to the Largs Community Development Trust for making the event happen. It was a brilliant morning for cycling in Largs, and I hope it's the first of many. A special thanks to David Ord for his help on the day, and to Aileen and Robert for looking after the shop while we were out.

Keep an eye on our social media and this blog for updates on the under-18s club. There's more to come.

Eddie — EAT Cycling, Largs