SEATTLE -- More than 23,000 people were counted biking to work Friday around the Puget Sound region.

There were 42 commute stations set up around the region for cyclists to pick up water, snacks and maps.

Kids joined in the event with 1,448 biking to school. Bryant Elementary School had the highest participation rate of 34 percent.

KIRO joined in and rode a total of 700 miles throughout the month so far.

The event runs nationwide.

This year 19,000 more people participated than last year. Organizers attributed the increase to high gas prices and nice weather.