Dozens of cyclists hit the streets of Tucson, South Tucson, and Oro Valley -- riding in honor of a fellow cyclist who was killed in an accident in South Tucson. 61-year-old Robert Lucke was hit and killed by a semi-truck at 6th and 36th back in February.
Friends, describing him as a fixture of the cycling community. His wife Beverly, amazed with how the community came together for the ride.
"It's amazing. These are great people," she said. "They have supported me 100%, they've loved me more than ever."
Friend and fellow rider Steve Wetmore explained this is a way for the cycling community to embrace one of it's members when they need it.
"This is for her as much as honoring Robert," Wetmore said.
He went on to add memorial rides like this one are meant to spread a message about bicycle safety as well -- for everyone on the road.
"One of the big phrases in driving is drive defensively, and in cycling, you have to put capital letters on that. We have to ride defensively," he said. "We are supposed to obey all the rules of the road, just like a car, just like we are in a car."
Lucke added she hopes more cyclists and drivers will pay more attention while on the road.
"Both drivers and cyclists need to be very alert," she said. "Be very focused, and no distractions."
The ride went for about 50 miles, starting at Sabino Cycles on the East Side, then down to the site of the accident in South Tucson, where there was a moment of silence. At that time, Lucke put down flowers and a photo of her late-husband. The group then rode up to Oro Valley where their home is for a celebration of his life before heading back to the East Side.
Knowing this would be a day she wouldn't forget, Lucke had a special moment before she left her house.
"I touched the box of ashes," she said. "And I said, Bob, we're going to have a good ride today."
A smile on her face, riding along side her tight-knit community, she had a good Saturday morning ride.
