A Sad Day

Today, Negros Day, is a SAD day for all the biking community.

We bikers have developed a certain esprit de corps being bonded by our common love for the sport. Naturally, we have a deep and sincere concern for each other’s safety, regardless. My ride is never complete without sending out prayers of safety and protection to all the other bikers I come across with.

Bikers are not just a bunch of reckless, careless and suicidal lot as some motorists perceive us to be. We are acutely aware of the dangers on the road. All the gears, from the helmet down to the bright jerseys and tail lights are not just for aesthetic purposes but mainly for safety reasons…particularly to be seen--- literally--- on the road.

Hence, the news earlier this morning of a fatal collision involving a biker named Ben Morana was totally awful and shocking. From the bits and pieces I gathered from fellow bikers, Ben was struck from behind by the driver of a speeding pick-up who, unable to overtake on the left because of an oncoming vehicle, opted to overtake on the right where Ben was then.

I was particularly stunned as hubby and I passed through the same route Ben took earlier in the day.

The horrific news immediately spread like wildfire among fellow bikers. For sure, his death left a lot of us devastated and with shaken confidence.

Ben was on the right side of the road –factually and figuratively --- at the time the collision occurred. At the right place but, unfortunately, the wrong time. What a senseless tragedy!

What are we supposed to do now? Are we expected not only to look forward for road hazards, sideways for passing motorists…but likewise, backwards for reckless drivers?

Like others, my heart goes to Ben, his family and to all those who feel this loss.

To everyone, Ride on but Ride safe!