Ride of Silence Celebrates 21 Years

2023 Ride of Silence designed to raise public awareness about bicycling safety

PALM SPRINGS — The Ride for Silence, which commemorates those who have been injured or killed while biking, is celebrating its 21st anniversary with its ride May 17 at 6:30 p.m. in Ruth Hardy Park.

Participants will gather at the south parking area, with brief comments from community leaders and elected officials, including:

An introduction by CVAG representative at 6:45
Councilmember Lisa Middleton, Palm Springs
Mayor Kathleen Kelly, Palm Desert
Mayor Linda Evans, La Quinta
Mayor Pro Tem Karina Quintanilla, Palm Desert, Spanish language comments
Safety comments, moment of silence – John Siegel, CV Cycling Communities

At 7 p.m. the ride will be led by the AIDS LifeCycle Desert Roadrunners.

This year, the event has support from the Friends of CV/Link, Volunteer Palm Springs, clubs and the City of Palm Springs.

The great Volunteer Palm Springs will offer free front and rear USB lights to all.

“We will join this global event, riding in silence at 7 p.m., Siegel said. “All levels of bicyclists are encouraged to join this effort to raise public awareness of cycling safety, and to honor those we’ve lost and those who have been injured. We also encourage non-cyclists to join us. Walkers can use the one-mile loop around the park, and all can show support by joining us at the brief ceremony.”

There is parking for those not arriving by bike. About 60 bicyclists participated last year,

The Ride of Silence is held at 7 p.m. local time around the globe. The organization’s rules are simple. Everyone will wear helmets, stay under 12 miles per hour, not speak, and follow all laws.

In 2022, the Ride of Silence was held in 226 locations worldwide, 45 states, 12 countries and four continents.

The route is less than 5 miles with the option of stopping sooner. Walkers, and families of all ages can use the sidewalk around the park. For this Palm Springs event, everyone is encouraged to wear red and/or white and use headlights and taillights. If you need help, volunteers are available to service your bike. Just speak up.