MARQUETTE -- Riders were rolling and ready to go in downtown Marquette this evening, as the first-ever Bike Jam kicked off.

People from all over the U.P., from ages 5 to 75, were ready to show their stuff in the races.

"I think it's super good for the community. As you can see, there's all ages here. There's people that are 50, 60, 70 years old, there's little kids out back that are 7 years old. There's a whole bunch of 20-somethings around here. And Marquette being a college town and being a biking town and a health-conscious town, it seems absolutely a necessity," said Assistant Race Director Greg Potvin.

The racing staff is also emphasizing safe riding. Before the races began, the Marquette Commons was full for the Bike Rodeo. Kids were getting their bikes checked and received free donated helmets.

"I think this is really nice to have it outside and get our bikes adjusted and get new helmets and stuff, so it's a little safer to ride on your bike," said biker Elysa Olivier.

In addition to the rodeo, food vendors and bike shops were selling energy food at the site, looking to feed and fuel bikers.

"It's really nice to see. We always were awaiting, like last week and tonight and this last evening, to see who'll show up, and they're here. It's really exciting to see, so we'll have at least 300 participants, maybe even 400," Potkin added.