RADFORD, VA – People across the world on Wednesday asked others to look out for cyclists on the road. One group in Radford has been hosting its own "Ride of Silence" for the past 10 years to honor professor Fess Green, who was hit and killed by a car while riding his bike home from Radford University.
It was at the entrance to Bisset Park that Green was killed while riding his bicycle. Now 10 years later, dozens of riders are keeping the tires spinning in his honor.
"He was killed riding home from work. He was a dedicated bicyclist and he also was a dedicated steward of Wildwood Park," said ride organizer Liz Altieri.
The "Ride of Silence" brought home for many Wednesday the dangers of the road.
"I was hit on a motorcycle, and the woman said exactly what every cyclist who's been hit has heard. I just didn't see her," said lead organizer Laurie Buchwald.
Buchwald says that's why the "Ride of Silence" is a somber event.
"We get on our bikes and we do not speak the whole time. So all you hear are the toe clips, and just the whirling of the tires," said Buchwald.
Without speaking a word, Buchwald says she can see her group's message take effect.
"When we're riding along main street, people will pull over as they do when they see a funeral procession, and that brings me to tears every time," said Buchwald.
The cyclists traveled seven miles through the city, a ride christened in advance by a poem read across the world.
"Tonight's ride is to make others aware, the road is there for all to share. To those not with us, or by our side, may God be with your partner on your final ride," said Altieri.
The riders will be back on the road next year, and every year in Radford, to make sure drivers never forget Dr. Fess Green and the lesson to look out for others on the road.