Robin Williams Memorial Ride Early on Sunday morning, September 14th, well over 500 riders left from Crissy Field to stage a rolling memorial for one of the most loved comedians in the world. Picking up folks waiting along the way the ride passed through Sausalito and on towards Tiburon probably 700 strong, a river of helmets, lycra and beautiful bicycles. Regrouping by the wate at Blackie’s Pasture there were brief comments from the Marin County Bicycle Coalition on Robin’s relation to the Bay Area cycling community. We were then treated to the introduction of Bob Roll, a surprise for many. Those who follow professional cycling know Bob as a professional road racer in the 80’s and early 90’s, and briefly a pro Mountain racer in the mid 90’s (as well as an Oakland native). Moving on to writing and television sportscasting Bob is well known to those who follow professional racing worldwide. He spoke to the tone and purpose of the ride, urged us to all have fun, share the road and be safe! Interestingly, though news of the ride was spread through social networks and websites, it was all intermediate and above level cyclists so the pace was strong and enjoyable (and to me a trifle challenging at times). We completed a shortened version of “The Loop”, a popular ride around the Tiburon Peninsula very popular with local cyclists, and one on which Robin was frequently spotted. Besides being a comedian, actor, and philanthropist, Robin was an avid cyclist who had a large collection of bicycles. He was also a supporter of the cycling community, often donating time at races to do commentary in his inimitable style. When approached by other cyclists on rides he was always happy to talk and share his enthusiasm for the sport. So this kind of memorial, celebrating his life as well as the joy of group riding was quite fitting. As Performance associates it is great to be part of a sport that can be highly sociable, honors its own, and cares about the greater community.
Posted on: Tue, 16 Sep 2014 13:00:01 +0000
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