April 3 was not just another day for a group of 10 and 11-year-old boys and girls from San Francisco's Daniel Webster Elementary School. On that day, they had the opportunity to ride their bikes with Italian two-time Olympic gold medal winner Paola Pezzo and local mountain bike pioneer, Gary Fisher. The event was promoted by the Marin based, non-profit organization Trips for Kids. The organization puts on guided bike trips for underprivileged youth. Pezzo and Fisher donated their time to the effort.

Pezzo, dressed in a gold cycling jacket, helmet and shoes and black tights, rode her gold-plated bike, designed by Fisher. Fisher struck a vibrant pose as well, resplendent in reds and yellows. The duo instructed the kids in bike safety and technique during the day. The ride took place in Marin's Tennessee Valley on a mild, sunny day.

Pezzo, Fisher, Trips for Kids founder and director, Marilyn Price and Trips for Kids staff spent four hours with the kids, as they cranked their bikes up and down some serious hills. At the end, everyone gathered to share cookies and their thoughts about the day's experience.

When asked why he was taking the time to ride with the children Fisher replied, "I like kids." It was obvious that Pezzo concurred. It was equally apparent that the kids were fairly fond of their new friends.

Trips for Kids operates Re-Cyclery, a Bicycle Thrift Shop. You can support the program by sending donations of new or used bikes, parts and accessories to: Trips for Kids, 138 Sunnyside, Mill Valley, CA 94941. For more information, please contact tfkbike@pacbell.net or 415-458-2986. Visit the website at www.tripsforkids.org.