Bend Ride of Silence honors killed, injured cyclists

A community came together to honor those who have been injured or killed while riding a bike.

Wednesday night’s Ride of Silence in Bend was a chance for the community to come together to honor cyclists and promote safe riding and driving practices.

Those who rode wore black and red armbands to signify why they are riding: Black armbands to honor those who have lost their lives and red ones for those who were injured.

The seven-mile ride began at Pioneer Park and wrapped around the city as the group rode in silence to show their respects.

Many at the ride were there to honor Marika Stone and Jonathan Chase Adams. who both lost their lives while riding their bikes in Bend.

Janet Schofstaff, who rode in the event, said that participating in something like this is important to her, not only to honor those who have lost their lives, but also to promote safety so others can continue to ride.

“It’s to raise awareness of cyclists and cyclists and cars together and sharing the road,” Schofstall said. “And we do that in honor of those that aren’t able to share that road. And we want to keep it safe, we want to keep it fun. And that really is what riding in Bend is all about.”

When riders returned, they were able to show their respects by placing a candle in a bag labeled with the names of those they were riding for.

One group who was there to honor Stone and her memory said it’s important to be able to show their respects.

“The honor for families and loved ones and everyone who is still struggling a lot to honor them and to just have a moment to think about them and all the people that are injured also in bike rides and lost,” Carrie Carney said about the ride.

The ride took about 40 minutes Wednesday evening, and everyone involved appeared to be touched and humbled by the experience.

Organizers said they plan to hold the Ride of Silence again next year.