HUNDREDS of cyclists from all parts of the province descended on Durban’s beachfront this morning to pay tribute to Richard Da Silva and Jared Dwyer, the two cyclists tragically killed on the M4 last week.
The morning cycle was arranged by the Durban cycling community, made up of bicycle shop-owners, clubs from far and wide and the Kings Park Cycling Club committee.
Paul Schmidt, chairman of the Kings Park Cycling Club, said the morning was a good example of the unity of the Durban and KZN cycling community. “Cyclists as far away as Cape Town had moments of silence for Rich and Jared before their rides this week, and we really appreciate the sincere support in aiding us throughout this traumatic time,” he said ahead of the ride.
The club suspended its regular rides in favour of smaller rides, where members could ride through their grief. It also hosted a trauma session for its members on Friday evening. “It’s really a hard thing to go through, they were amazing guys.” All 80 of the club’s members left The Bike and Bean parking lot with hundreds of other cyclists, including city Mayor, James Nxumalo, and family members of the two cyclists.
The cyclists, with the assistance of Metro Police, headed to the M4 site where the accident occurred to place flowers and wreaths in tribute. A major collage of pictures of both cyclists taken at various rides was also made as a tribute from the KPCC.