Thousands of Texans Participate in Ride of Silence

On May 17, 2006, thousands of Texas cyclists took to the streets in the international Ride of Silence. Seventeen Ride of Silence events were held throughout Texas. According to media reports and conservative counts, there were approximately 4,000 riders at all the Texas events.

Texas rides received media coverage in all the major markets and most of the smaller ones. Coverage list and links below.
Print stories: 20
TV news reports: 13
Radio interviews or stories: 5

Texas cities that held a Ride of Silence included: Amarillo, Austin, Beaumont, College Station, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston (two locations), Huntsville, Lubbock, Mineral Wells, Odessa, San Antonio, Temple, The Woodlands, Waco and Wichita Falls.

This was an excellent example of collaboration between the national Ride of Silence coordinators, a state bicycle organization and the local events. With the prior approval of the national Ride of Silence organizers, Texas Bicycle Coalition was able to supplement local press efforts with a media alert to 1,200 news outlets in the state. Also with approval of national ROS organizers and local ROS event directors, the Coalition developed, printed and distributed ROS relevant material to many of the ROS events. Coalition staff and board members were also able to attend and assist at many of the events.

The Ride of Silence organizers did a great job. Thanks to all of you who helped make the Ride of Silence possible, and thanks to all the cyclists who participated.