‘Too many ghosts’: Abilene’s 7th annual ride of silence reminds drivers to share the road, be safe
ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – A group of Big Country cyclists began a 5-mile circuit from a McMurry University parking lot Wednesday night, a route they’ve been taking annually for seven years. While it’s a leisurely trip lasting less than half-an-hour, you won’t find lively conversation along this trip.
The group rode in silence to honor the memories of those lost to cycling-related crashes, and raise awareness about the importance of sharing the road with all who use it.
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Thomas Beatty of the Steamboat Cycling Club has been a part of the ride since 2016. The silence for him is a sacred time to reflect on the past and pave a way for the future, “It’s remembering all the ones we’ve lost, and hopefully make people aware.”
Since 2010, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has recorded 11 lives taken in cycling-related wrecks on Taylor and Jones County roads. So, this ride is a cause worth mentioning for mountain bike racer and third year participant, Bennett Rogers.
“It feels good to be supporting the cause,” said Rogers.
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Taylor County Judge Phil Crowley gave opening remarks, declaring the day as “Ride of Silence Day” in service of making residents more vigilant on the roads. Judge Crowley also read the names of those 11 people who had lost their lives, followed by a moment of silence.
Bike Town owner, Jim Macdonald has a personal connection to the cause. He told KTAB/KRBC about a friend he lost just a few years ago.
“She had a lasting impact on the local cycling community, and this is one of the ways that we can remember her,” Macdonald shared.
The Abilene event began in 2016 following the passing of Taylor County Judge Sam Carroll who was injured during the Tour de Gap race and passed away that year. Beatty, having suffered a bicycling injury and knowing others who have suffered far worse, spoke to the importance of the day.
“There’s too many ghosts. Too many people not paying attention. Just put your phones away,” warned Beatty.
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No matter the mode of transportation, the road is shared by all every day. That’s a right these cyclists say no one should have to fight for.
“Because I’m on the road sometimes, and just having people know we’re there is very helpful,” Rogers added.
The National “Ride of Silence” movement began in 2003 at White Rock lake in Dallas when 1,000 cyclists came together in memory of Larry Schwartz, who was killed in a cycling crash on May 4 of that year. “Ride” events now take place at 228 locations world wide, 40 states, 16 countries, and across five continents.
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