Club Ride Detail

Ride of Silence, Grand Rapids MI

Date(s): Wed, May 21st 7:00 PM
Location: Riverside Park, 2nd park entrance on Monroe Ave., Contact: Mark Hagar, Phone (6161) 389-3552

Description: Date: May 21st, 2008
Time: 7:00 PM (arrive by 6:30)
Where: Riverside Park, 2nd park entrance on Monroe Ave.

“Silence can be deafening”

Join cyclists worldwide in a silent slow-paced ride (max. 12 mph/20 kph) in honor of those who have been injured or killed while cycling on public roadways.

WHY DOES THIS SITE EXIST?

* To HONOR those who have been injured or killed
* To RAISE AWARENESS that we are here
* To ask that we all SHARE THE ROAD

THE RIDE OF SILENCE™ WILL NOT BE QUIET

On May 21, 2008, at 7:00 PM, the Ride of Silence will begin in North America and roll across the globe. The R of S will continue on Sat. May 24th @ 10:00 AM in the Southern Hemisphere. (for rider safety and greater visibility to the public and media) Cyclists will take to the roads in a silent procession to honor cyclists who have been killed or injured while cycling on public roadways. Although cyclists have a legal right to share the road with motorists, the motoring public often isn't aware of these rights, and sometimes not aware of the cyclists themselves.

In 2003, Chris Phelan organized the first Ride of Silence in Dallas after endurance cyclist Larry Schwartz was hit by a passing bus and was killed. On May 16th 2007 over 275 Rides of Silence were held in all 50 USA states, in 15 countries, on 6 continents.

The Ride of Silence is a free ride that asks its cyclists to ride no faster than 12 mph / 20k and remain silent during the ride. Rides are typically 10-12 miles long (20k). There is no brochure, no sponsors, no registration fees. The ride, which is held during National Bike Safety month (USA), aims to raise the awareness of motorists, police and city officials that cyclists have a legal right to the public roadways. The ride is also a chance to show respect for those who have been killed or injured.

The 1st 100 cyclists attending the Grand Rapids R of S will be given a FREE SHARE THE ROAD T-Shirt, thanks to donations from local businesses and organizations. 100 FREE h2o bottles will also be available.

Black arm bands will be available to honor cyclists who've been killed, red ones available to honor those who've been injured. R of S Funeral Flag sticks will also be available. (these must be returned, donated for the evening by a local bike shop)

Mark Hagar
Ride of Silence, National Board Member, Mentor
Ride of Silence, Michigan USA Director, 2005-08 Grand Rapids MI Ride Organizer
http://www.rideofsilence.org
Mark.Hagar@rideofsilence.org

Mileage: 11 miles
Terrain: Flat
Fee: Free
Until Date: n/a
Then Fee: n/a