Ride of Silence

Those of us who bicycle tend to associate our bike rides with positive memories:  feeling free, socializing with friends, pedaling through stunning scenery, fun times, and more.  There is an event, the Ride of Silence, that has a solemn mood.

The Ride of Silence is a worldwide event that honors bicyclists killed or injured on public roadways, reminds all of us to share the road, and draws attention to bike safety.  This year's ride is slated for May 19 at 7PM local time.  Cyclists in Washington State and around the word will take to the streets in a silent procession, riding slowly, and following the rules of the road.

Eight Washington State communities have organized Rides of Silence this year:  Bremerton, Everett, Seattle, Spokane, Spokane Valley, Tacoma, Vancouver and Wenatchee.  Ride details here.  I encourage you to take part in the ride if you live in one of these communities.  It's haunting and emotional to be riding with so many cyclists in silence.

Whether you participate in the Ride of Silence or not, please pause and remember Gordon Patterson of Vancouver, Kevin Black and Carol Salomon of Seattle, James McClurkan of Bremerton, David Squires of Spokane, and the hundreds of other cyclists killed on our roads each year.  And ride safely.