Biking is a fantastic way to help keep the air clean and get exercise. A short, four-mile round-trip by bicycle keeps about 15 pounds of pollutants out of the air we breathe.

That’s why we are thrilled to help promote the 2013 National Bike Challenge, sponsored locally by Bike Pittsburgh and OTB (Over the Bar) Bicycle Cafe in the South Side.

Inflate those tires, oil those chains and gear up for the challenge, which kicks off May 1 and ends September 30. This free and friendly competition encourages Pittsburghers to get out and ride–whether as daily commuters, weekend warriors or somewhere in between. The challenge helps riders realize the health, economic and environmental benefits of riding a bike.

Riders can choose to participate as individuals or teams and see how they stack up against others in the Pittsburgh region and nationwide. This year, Bike Pittsburgh and OTB Bicycle Cafe are working to register 1,250 people to help our region pedal to the top spot in the country.

Participant points favor daily riding–20 points per day, plus 1 point per mile logged. Smartphone users can download a free app to directly track and log trips for the National Bike Challenge. Challenge yourself, your family, friends, neighbors and colleagues to get moving, log miles, earn points and be eligible to win prizes at the national level. Pittsburgh riders even earn free drinks at OTB Bicycle Cafe just for participating.

Sign up at nationalbikechallenge.org and start logging your miles today!