When the tomatoes in your garden are finally ripening, you know that September is near. And as September approaches, Portland and the rest of the state gears up for the Bike Commute Challenge.

Organized by the Bicycle Transportation Alliance, the BCC is a free event for employers in Oregon and SW Washington to challenge their employees and business peers to bike to work. In 2011, over 1400 workplaces and 12,063 employees participated in the month-long event.

If some of your co-workers arrive at work wearing a bike helmet, it's likely that your employer is already registered. If not, all you need is someone to register the team and become a team captain. 

To increase the fun and competitive spirit, the BTA last year added a League function. Leagues are usually organized around employment sectors (design/architectural, outdoor industry) or regions (Gorge, Eugene/Springfield, etc.).

An employer can join as many leagues of the 74 leagues as they wish - and can create more.

The BTA is offering a limited number of workplace bike commute workshops. Contact Stephanie Noll for more information.