Cyclists ride to promote harmony on Austin’s roads
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In the city of Lance Armstrong and the Capitol 10,000, it seems like every weekend brings a new run, bike or walk for charity.
However, the safety of the cyclists themselves often goes ignored.
Organizers of the Round Rock Express Ride want to change that by raising money for the Austin-based nonprofit, “Please Be Kind to Cyclists,” the founder of which knows firsthand the dangers of two-wheeled transport.
"I was hit by a car, by a lady driving a car, and I was in a coma. I was basically dying and here I am. After 8 surgeries I came out of that," Al Bastidas said.
Using his experience as a vehicle for change, Bastidas is hoping to continue educating drivers about safely co-existing on the road with cyclists.
"A lot of it is, be patient, and tolerance and harmony. That cyclist can be your neighbor, it can be a friend of a friend, your doctor, your daughter's teacher," he said.
As part of the event, cyclists were treated to a free Round Rock Express baseball game and barbecue after the ride.
Bastidas said the money raised will help fund a promotional video about cyclist safety, which will be distributed to defensive driving schools.