Ride of Silence returns to honor cyclists, more
Sanibel will take part in a global event next week that commemorates cyclists who have been injured and killed while riding a bike, as well as raises awareness about the importance of sharing the road.
Held since 2008 on the island, the Annual Ride of Silence will take place on May 20 at 7 p.m. starting and ending at the Sanibel Community Park on Sanibel. Organized and hosted by the Sanibel Bicycle Club and Billy’s Bikes, the route — which is about 4.5 miles — will follow the city’s Shared Use Path.
“We participate to bring the focus to the safety of cyclists and motorists while cycling,” club President Jim Meyer said.
The first Ride of Silence was organized by Chris Phelan in 2003 in Dallas, Texas, after cyclist Larry Schwartz was hit by the mirror of a passing bus and killed. It drew 1,000 participating cyclists.
Today, events are held around the world on the third Wednesday in May at 7 p.m.
The Sanibel event is open to the community.
“We encourage the public to attend, no matter what level of cyclist you are, because it will help you realize the need for safety and caution both on bikes and in nearby vehicles,” he said.
About 30 people took part in last year’s ride.
Those planning to participate should arrive before 6:45 p.m.
“We’ll have a brief introduction of the club members who will lead the ride,” Meyer said. “We will discuss the history and the meaning of the ride.”
Non-club members will have to sign a waiver.
The route will head east on Periwinkle Way and then south on Casa Ybel Road, turning into West Gulf Drive. At Tarpon Bay Road, it will travel north to Periwinkle and then east again to return to the park.
“It is a deliberately slow ride,” he said. “It is, as it suggests, a ride of silence.”
The Sanibel Police Department will assist with traffic control.
“Any type of bike is welcome,” Meyer said.
All participants will be required to wear a helmet.
“We prefer, obviously, no cell phone usage,” he added.
Billy’s Bikes will have water, some safety vests and a few spare helmets for those who need one.
“Thank you to Billy’s Bikes for being a partner to the cycling community of Sanibel,” Meyer said.
There will also be information on the club.
“We will have some flyers, and we’ll direct them to the website,” he said.
The community is encouraged to come out.
“It’s a good reminder for all of us to pay close attention while riding and driving,” Meyer said. “And meet some new people.”
For more information, visit https://sanibelbicycleclub.org/.
The Sanibel Community Park is at 2231 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.
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IF YOU GO
What
Annual Ride of Silence
When
May 20 at 7 p.m.; arrive before 6:45 p.m.
Where
Sanibel Community Park, 2231 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel
Details
Free and open to public
To reach TIFFANY REPECKI / trepecki@breezenewspapers.com, please email