05Feb
While I was riding down the coast this past weekend to San Diego I came across a ghost bike tied up to a fence at San Onofre state beach, and I could help but think about Gustavo Ramirez. It's been nearly a month since since his death, and I thought I'd share with everyone some words I put together the day of his memorial ride. Take a read and remember to be safe out there.
A Farewell to a Fellow Rider
by: Tony Cruz
January 16, 2010
Gustavo Ramirez had a very special love that many of us here today share
The love to ride our bikes
While on his bike Gustavo probably experienced two of the greatest joys a rider could ever have
The joy of riding the open road and the joy of being one with your bike
The open road is paradise for a rider and the challenges it holds are endless
The ones who embrace those challenges
Heart pumping, lungs burning, legs pedaling swiftly
They are the courageous ones who truly live and breathe for riding their bikes
Gustavo was embracing those challenges the day he left us
And although his departure from this life was much too soon
I bet he’s pedaling through paradise on the open road
Heart pumping, lungs burning, legs pedaling swiftly
So as we finish his ride today in celebration of his memory
Take a moment to
Tip your helmet, or ring that bike bell, and let Gustavo know that he may be gone
But he’s certainly not forgotten.
2.22.2010 at 5:57 PM
Thank you for remembering Gustavo. And to all of us left behind, stay current in your relationships...honor those you love and feel the wind in your hair as you find wonder in the outdoors.
3.04.2010 at 5:18 PM
I'm so glad you posted this. What you said at the memorial ride was so touching, I've often thought how nice it would be to get a copy of what you read. I think it meant a lot that you came to that memorial ride. Thanks again for keeping Gustavo's memory alive and reminding us of bike safety in his honor.
Much love and respect to all the cyclists out there!
~Gustavo's Cousin, Andrea