Community Corner

Ride of Silence Honors Fallen Cyclists

Dozens of riders from all over the county are expected to gather for a silent ride through the city on Wednesday.

Cyclists from across Riverside County will have an opportunity to participate in an international event honoring cyclists killed or injured on the road as part of the Sixth Annual Riverside County Ride of Silence May 16 in Old Town Temecula.

The silent moving tribute to cyclists is scheduled to start at 7 p.m. with cyclists gathering in front of the Temecula . Participants are encouraged to bring lights and helmets. Organizers will be handing out black arm bands bearing the names of cyclists who have been killed or injured in road accidents. Cyclists may also bring their own arm bands.

The ride is approximately 12 miles at 12 mph. Riders wear black arm bands and use lights on their bicycles to form a solemn procession. This year the route will include Front Street to Overland, Margarita, Rancho Vista, Ynez, and Santiago for the return to Old Town. The ride is silent, giving participants time to reflect on the loss of fellow cyclists, many of them friends and family members.

Find out what's happening in Temeculawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The event typically draws between 80-100 riders. Cyclists at previous events have ranged in age from their teens to senior citizens, beginners to members of local cycling clubs. Small children are not encouraged to participate unless they are riding on tandems with adults or in trailers. This is a night ride on busy city streets. There are no entry fees or costs. No advertising is accepted.

The Ride of Silence is a national and international event, and thousands will participate at the same time in all 50 states and many foreign countries. More than 300 sites are signed up on the RideofSilence.org website.

Find out what's happening in Temeculawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

-- By Rick Peoples, spokesperson for the event


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