Vigilance Ride
Recently in my area, two cyclists have been struck by motorists.
Visiting the pine forests of east Texas all the way from California,
Mark Cathey had an unfortunate encounter with a pick up’s mirror. The
impact would break several of Mr. Cathey’s ribs and collapse one of his
lungs. Several weeks later a local cyclist, Janice Terry-Phillips was
struck while out on a ride with a friend. This time more than just the
mirror made impact. She would suffer a broken back and be placed in ICU.
I am happy to report both riders are expected to make full recoveries!
Distracted driving is suspected of playing a role in both incidences.
Prompted by these recent events, the Tyler Bicycle Club spearheaded
by Cori Moore, decided to do something. What was something? Protest
motorists? That would be silly. We are motorists too. I personally own
several vehicles in various stages of working order. No use protesting
ourselves. Not only are we also motorists, we are doctors, hunters,
mechanics, bakers, and… well, human.
We are human
Personally, I am a Photographer / Student / Husband / Father. I think
many times those who don’t ride a bike see us as just cyclists. We our,
as I just mentioned much more than that. We are your co-workers, your
neighbors, your family. Chances are you know and love a cyclist. You may
not be aware that they ride but, you know them. Cori and the club
decided to stage a ride that showed our more human side. An eight mile
out and back at parade pace. Escorted by Tyler police, we would ride in
honor of our fellow injured cyclists and to garner public attention to
please pay attention when you drive. Now that was something. Something
good.
The idea was to meet up at Elite Bicycles. From there we would ride
to East Texas Medical Center and back to Elite. Over 100 people had
committed to riding this event on FaceBook. I pulled up and found a
place to park, I showed up just in time to get unloaded and on the road
when we took off at 3:oopm.
The crowd grew. (Over 200 showed up and rode)
News cameras were set in place as riders mingled and made signs.
“Student”, “Mom”, “Mail Carrier”, were a few examples of the tags people
pinned on their backs.
Dad of 3
Bikes and people began packing the streets as the police escorts got
in place. Several riders donning FRESH by Brookshires/Chicken Express
kits patrolled the waiting riders. If you needed assistance, these were
your go to guys and gals. By now there were well over 100 riders. As the
first police cruiser headed out, a long wide serpent of aluminum,
steel, carbon fiber, and flesh followed.
The velosnake
As one police car would control one intersection, another would get
ahead to the next. As we approached, the officers would hold traffic as
our bike only parade made it’s way through. Sticking to the designated
bike route, we kept clear of major roads, thus the officers didn’t have
to hold up long lines of traffic.
Just a few of the Humans…
People stepped out of their houses and businesses to watch the
spectacle that was rolling by. Camera phones were on display as they
recorded us pedaling down their neighborhoods.
Through sheer grit and a soft nudge on the shoulder here and there we
made it back to Elite. The parking lot was electric with riders
discussing the event, past rides, and rides yet to come.
Many different bikes. I like it!
Police escort
One of several tandems
Hitchbikes. Great way to take kids along
A friendly wave for the camera
The final stretch
“note : I borrowed this blog from some where else, i dont have full
credit for it, I did do slight mods to it from my point of view.. “
