This year’s annual Corvallis Ride of Silence has been set for 6:30 pm, Wednesday, May 20. As in years past, all are welcomed to participate. The solemn ride is to remember the cyclists who have been injured or killed on Corvallis roads, raise awareness of the numbers of people who ride bikes, and ask that all share the road safely.
The International Ride of Silence started in 2003 in Dallas, Texas and is held annually on the third Wednesday in May. It has grown to include over four hundred locations worldwide in 44 states and on five continents. This event will be the 21st annual ride in Corvallis.
The local Ride of Silence started after Robin Jensen, a sheriff’s cadet and Aquatic Center staff member, was killed by a hit and run driver in August 2004.
Other local cyclists that have died include Randall Fox in 2016, Eric Austin in 2018, Jeremy Gruver in 2019 and Sherry Sisson who was hit on the Alsea Highway southwest of Corvallis in 2021. At the time of his death, Austin worked for The Corvallis Advocate as a copy editor and sometimes contributing writer.
The Ghost Bike
A white-painted “Ghost Bike” has been appearing on streets and roads in Benton County marking locations where bicyclists have been hurt or killed. The bicycle has information cards about the ride. The Ghost Bike is a reminder that there are thousands of bikes on the streets each day, each one with a vulnerable rider on board.
This Year’s Ride Details
The Ride of Silence is a free ride suitable for all levels of cyclists, according to coordinator Jay Thatcher. “Just wear a helmet and share the road. The leaders will stop often to let the line regroup.” Riders should gather for a simple ceremony in front of Osborn Aquatic Center, 1940 NW Highland Dr. at 6:30 pm. The ride will begin promptly at 7 pm and is planned to last just over an hour. Armbands will be available for riders remembering friends or family.
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