Wilmington cyclists take part in Ride of Silence

All around the world, cyclists took time out Wednesday night to honor those who have been injured or killed while biking on public roadways. In New Hanover County alone two cyclists died in 2008 while pedaling on the pavement.

Cape Fear Cyclists Vice President Ann Mangiacapre said, “Equipment companies have definitely come out with better products for the rider to be safer, more reflective clothing, things like that, but unfortunately we have had many accidents most of which go unreported and deaths.”

The Ride of Silence is also about raising public awareness about sharing the road; that is all these cyclists are asking. And, when you think about it, they are not only cyclists; most of them drive cars too.

Wednesday night’s ride was just that, a ride, not a race. It covered some of Wilmington’s major roads. And whether you realize it or not, there are signs of road sharing all over the place. In fact, it’s the law.