Ride of Silence

Last night I participated in the annual "Ride of Silence"; the 5th annual ride commemorating bicyclists who have died or been injured while cycling. There were about 40 cyclists in our area who met at Homestead High School in Cupertino for a 7 PM departure. We rode four or five miles "up" to the Stevens Creek reservoir:
The ride was fabulous, and the highest climb I've done to date on my Xtracycle. Of course, coming down was easier (and much faster). The Almaden Cycle Touring Club sponsored the ride; one of the members spoke briefly before the ride and handed out a half sheet of paper listing 30 or so cyclists from the bay area who have died while cycling in the last several years. We actually rode past the spot where two were killed on a training ride a couple of months ago. Very sobering, and we all paused for a moments reflection at the roadside memorial.

On a slightly lighter, ironic note: Before we left on the ride, we all signed the now-typical waiver form, which said (in essence) "If I am injured or killed on this ride, I won't hold the Club responsible."