provided to The Santiva Chronicle
More than 30 cyclists of all ages and skill levels participated in the annual Ride of Silence May 18 on Sanibel Island. The Ride of Silence is an event held around the world on the third Wednesday in May to remember people killed while riding a bike or walking on streets and highways. Cyclists ride in silent memorial to the victims and their loved ones as they help raise awareness of the dangers that are faced on the roads.
The Ride of Silence began in Dallas on May 21, 2003 as a memorial by friends for an endurance rider named Larry Schwartz who had died after being hit by the sideview mirror of a passing bus. Participating in that first ride was Mike Murgas who authored the poem “The Ride of Silence” that is read at the start of these annual rides worldwide. The poem’s final stanza says this: “Tonight’s ride is to make others aware. The road is there for all to share. To those not with us or by our side, may God be your partner on your final ride.”
Thank you to our sponsor Billy’s Bikes for providing the support and refreshments and thank you to Officer Chad Maik with the Sanibel Police Department for escorting the group at the crossings.
If you are interested in learning more about the Sanibel Bike Club, visit sanibelbicycleclub.org or bring your bike and join one of our 7:30 a.m. Saturday rides that leaves from the Sanibel Community Center. All levels of riders are welcome.
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