In an effort to draw additional attention to the rising number of incidents occurring on Shore Drive between cyclists and pedestrians and automobiles, the Virginia Bicycling Federation, , Tidewater Bicycle Association, and Kokoamos Restaurant have joined together to sponsor the Share Shore Drive Day Bike Ride.
The tragic death of fellow cyclist Dan Hirsh on April 19, 2009 on Shore Drive in Virginia Beach reinforces the fact that either for fun, exercise or transport, cycling on the road can be a dangerous endeavor.
The co-sponsored Share Shore Drive ride event is meant to call attention to the need for further emphasis on cycle safety, specifically to build support for dedicated bike lanes in high-traffic roadways in Virginia and to encourage the driving public to cultivate an equitable relationship with bicyclists and pedestrians.
The event is scheduled to begin at 7:30 AM on Saturday, July 11; participants are asked to be at Kokoamos at least 20 minutes prior to start, and Final Kick mechanics will be on hand at 7:00 AM to assist cyclists with minor repairs.
The pace will be moderate so as to not drop any participants, and will have cyclists riding a circuit on Shore Drive between Jack Frost Road (aka Helicopter Road), Kokoamos on Great Neck Road, and First Landing State Park.
All participants and their families are invited celebrate the rides’ completion at Kokoamos Restaurant afterwards for cookout eats, beverages and great company.
Ride rules include the following:
• All riders must wear an approved cycling helmet
• Carry adequate personal identification
• Headphones are NOT permitted
• Riders are required to obey all applicable traffic laws
• Riders under age 18 must be accompanied on the ride by a parent, guardian or designated adult rider.
For further information on the event, including an outline of the specific ride route, visit the Tidewater Bicycle Association website for details, and enjoy a safe ride on this cycling community special event.
