On Wednesday, May 17, 2023 at 7 p.m. a Ride of Silence will  be taking place in more than 20 countries around the world. Its purpose is to honour cyclists who have been killed or injured on public roadways.

In Kingsville, the ride  has been organized by Dave Kfrerer of Cycle Kingsville. It will be led by the Kingsville Fire department. Banded Goose Brewery at its Pearl Street entrance is the meeting place for cyclists. All riders are welcome.

The route is 10-12 km long along residential streets around Kingsville.

This year marks 21 years since the first Ride of Silence took place. In 2003,  the first Ride of Silence™ was organized in Dallas by Chris Phelan. Phelan did so after his friend endurance cyclist Larry Schwartz was hit by the mirror of a passing bus and was killed.

That Ride of Silence took place at White Rock Lake in Dallas. After hearing by word of mouth and receiving emails over a period of only 10 days, 1,000 cyclists came together. Each year since then cyclists have participated in a silent, slow-paced procession. There are no registration fees.

The organizers of the Ride of Silence request that cyclists:

• ride no faster than 13 mph
• wear helmets
• follow the rules of the road and
• remain silent during the ride

The ride is held during National Bike Month. Its intention is to raise the awareness of motorists, police and city officials that cyclists have a legal right to share public roadways. It’s also an opportunity for people to honour and show respect for those who have been killed or injured while riding a bicycle on public roads.

“Please join me and other cycling supporters this Wednesday at 7 p.m.,” Town Councillor Tom Neufeld said. “Treat it as a funeral procession if you happen to see us out at that time. Thank you.”

Date:
May 17, 2023

Time:
7 p.m.

Meeting Place:
Banded Goose Brewery, Pearl Street entrance

For more information about the Ride of Silence click here.

Image: Courtesy of Tom Neufeld