This Saturday and Sunday, the Streets Are For Everyone (SAFE) community will gather together in Griffith Park, raising awareness for National Bicycle Safety Month (May).
With bicycle fatalities climbing nationwide and summer travel approaching, SAFE, the Auto Club, and a grieving sister will gather with hundreds of runners and bike riders for Finish the Ride/Finish the Run to urge drivers, cyclists and pedestrians to share the road safely to prevent deadly crashes.
This year’s Finish the Ride & Finish the Run event will honor the life of Regan Cole Graham, a 36 year-old expectant mother who was killed in January when she was struck by a vehicle while riding her bicycle in Playa del Rey; her baby, Ophelia, was delivered at the hospital but tragically passed away the following day. Regan’s sister, Caitlin Cole, will ride Regan’s bike to complete the ride she never finished — honoring her memory and raising awareness to help prevent similar tragedies.
“I haven’t ridden a bike since her crash, but it will be such an honor to do that for my big sister and Ophelia. It means so much to me to do that to keep their spirit alive,” said Cole. “Bicyclists and pedestrians aren’t protected like people in a car, and our lives can be taken in a matter of seconds.”
For Damian Kevitt, who founded Finish the Ride / Finish the Run, the movement and awareness is a personal one. Kevitt lost his leg after being struck by a driver in Griffith Park in 2013. The movement promotes safer streets and shared responsibility among drivers, cyclists, runners, and pedestrians.
The Auto Club of Southern California is a partner with SAFE. Traffic violence continues to claim the lives of cyclists at alarming rates. According to the National Safety Council, preventable bicycle deaths increased 37% over the past decade, and fatalities consistently peak during the warmer months when more people are driving and riding.
At the same time, ebike use has surged, adding new risks due to higher speeds and reduced visibility. Safety advocates say education, awareness, and mutual respect are key to preventing tragedies.
“As we gather at this weekend’s Walk and Ride in Griffith Park, we’re reminded why National Bicycle Safety Month matters,” said Auto Club Corporate Communications Manager Doug Shupe. “More people are driving and riding during the summer months, and without extra care from everyone on the road, the risk of serious and deadly crashes increases. Staying alert, slowing down, and being visible can save lives.”
To get involved and register for this weekend’s activities visit: www.FinishTheRide.org.
WHEN:
Saturday, May 2nd and Sunday, May 3rd.
Finish the Ride / Finish the Run — Griffith Park
A community run, walk and ride focused on preventing traffic violence, honoring victims, and promoting safer roads for everyone.
Distances: On Saturday, May 2, Finish The Run includes 1K Kids & Puppy Runs, 5K, 10K, 15K, and Half Marathon. On Sunday, May 3, Finish The Ride offers cycling distances of 12 miles, 20 miles, 35 miles, 50 miles, 62 miles, and 100 miles, welcoming participants of all experience levels.
WHERE:
The race starts and ends at The Autry Museum — Griffith Park
4700 Western Heritage Way
Los Angeles, CA 90027
