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Fallen cyclists to be honored in silent ride

Melanie Wong
Vail, CO Colorado

EAGLE COUNTY ” Cyclists from around the valley will gather for a Ride of SIlence next Wednesday to remember cyclists who have been killed or injured on the road.

The slow-paced, solemn ride is also to raise awareness about sharing the road, said organizer Linda Guerette, an Edwards cyclist and Race Across America rider.

The ride is free and not designed to be a critical mass. Groups of riders can start from different locations, but Guerrette is planning a ride that leaves at 7 p.m. from the Beaver Creek Elk Lot. The procession will go from Avon to the bike path bridge at Dowd Junction at no faster than 12 mph.



Riders are encouraged to wear black arm bands for cyclists who have died or red arm bands for cyclists who have been injured on the road, Guerrette said.

Cyclists around the world will do similar rides ” the event will take place in 272 cities, 50 states and 15 countries, according to the ride’s Web site.

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The event started in Dallas in 2003 in honor of endurance cyclist Larry Schwartz, who was killed after he was hit by a school bus mirror. More than 1,000 people attended the event, and the ride has grown ever since.

While there have been no recent cycling fatalities in this area, Guerrette said the first person that comes to mind for her is Vail resident Brett Malin. The local pro was killed when he was hit by a semi-truck while competing in the 2003 Race Across America.

“Still, the numbers (of deaths) are rising in general, simply because there are more cyclists on the road. People just need to be aware,” Guerrette said.

Staff Writer Melanie Wong can be reached at 748-2928 or mwong@vaildaily.com.


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