Hundreds of cyclists in Canberra honor memory of those killed in road crash
In Canberra, Australia, hundreds of cyclists took part in a memorial ride in honor of Bridie Lee and Ryan Rietmuller — members of the local triathlon community who died after a collision with a car in late August. This was reported by ABC News Australia.
Lee and Rietmuller were cycling with three other people when they were hit by a blue Hyundai Accent in the Palmerston area at about 6:20 a.m. on August 27. Thirty-two-year-old Bridie Lee died at the scene, while 39-year-old Ryan Rietmuller died in hospital several days later.
Before emergency services arrived, members of the public helped the victims, including a nurse and a police officer who were off duty at the time. Police said the 40-year-old female driver of the car is assisting law enforcement in establishing the circumstances. No charges have been filed in the case so far.
Community support
The victims were members of the Canberra Bilbys triathlon club. Club secretary Katie Binstock said the memorial ride was held to honor Lee and Rietmuller, support people experiencing the loss, and encourage cyclists to return to the roads.
More current news is available on the UA.News Telegram channel Telegram.
According to her, only one person attended the club's weekly morning training session in the first week after the crash: participants were hesitant about returning to riding on roads. Club members are providing support to the three other cyclists who were with Lee and Rietmuller on the day of the crash.
Road safety
ACT Triathlon president Lara Lever said the tragedy demonstrated how close the triathlon and cycling communities are. According to her, cyclists feel vulnerable on the roads, and drivers should give them space and be prepared for sudden maneuvers when athletes avoid obstacles, potholes, or debris.
Katie Binstock described Bridie Lee and Ryan Rietmuller as caring, friendly, and witty people. During the memorial event, participants also honored their memory with a minute of silence.
