Bikers gather for the 15th year of the peaceful Ride of Silence event
In Memoriam: Cyclists Honored in Kailua-Kona's 15th Annual Ride of Silence
Kailua-Kona, HI - A nationwide movement for cycling safety and awareness reached the Big Island on Saturday as the community took part in the 15th annual Ride of Silence. The solemn event, held in 375 cities worldwide, honors cyclists who have been killed or seriously injured in traffic collisions.
The event, featuring nearly 100 cyclists, partnered with local organizations such as the Hawaii Cycling Club (HCC), Coffee Talk Riders, PATH (People for Active Transport Hawaii), Velofix, and the Hawaii Police Department (HPD).
"This ride is about bringing public awareness and safety regarding bicyclists on our roadways," said Dwayne Sluss, a Kona Community Policing Officer with the Hawaii Police Department, who has participated in the Ride of Silence for five years. "This year, it holds a special meaning as we dedicate it to Franz Weber."
Weber, a beloved advocate for cycling safety, served as president of the HCC and was a driving force behind organizing the Ride of Silence for several years. Tragically, he passed away in April from injuries sustained in a cycling accident.
The slow-paced, two-mile route began at the Kona Community Aquatic Center, continuing onto Alii Drive, through Historic Kailua Village, to Hualalai Road and Kuakini Highway, before returning to the pool parking lot. The silence during the ride symbolized the loss of those who can no longer speak for themselves, serving as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life on the road.
Maiki Cofer, Vice President of the Hawaii Cycling Club, voiced the sentiment shared by many cyclists: "We want drivers to be aware that cyclists are out there, and they have the right to use the lanes. We could be a friend, a family member - we seek mutual safety on the roads."
The Ride of Silence began in 2003 in Dallas, Texas, following the death of endurance cyclist Larry Schwartz, who was struck and killed by a passing bus's mirror during a training ride. Since then, the quiet, respectful procession has spread to cities worldwide, calling for motorists, police, and city officials to recognize and protect the rights and safety of cyclists.
Local organizers offered some advice for drivers and cyclists alike: "Slow down, take a breath, and have courtesy on the road. For cyclists, ride in the bike lanes, ride single file, follow traffic laws, and use common sense."
The Ride of Silence serves as a moving tribute to those who have been lost and a call to action for improved cycling safety and infrastructure. By joining together in silence, cyclists and their supporters aim to create a safer and more collaborative environment for all road users.
- Despite the tragic loss of Franz Weber, a community champion for cycling safety, the Ride of Silence in Kailua-Kona continued, partnering with local organizations such as the Hawaii Cycling Club and Hawaii Police Department.
- As the community of Kailua-Kona honored cyclists who had been killed or injured in traffic collisions, cyclists collectively advocated for road safety, appealing to drivers to recognize and respect their rights and promoting safe cycling practices.
