Because We're Family

Since I didn't write the last post myself, I didn't feel comfortable about leaving it at that.  So here's an extra one that, in a way, ties to the Ride of Silence.  

I, like many cyclists out there, are still saddened by the death of Wouter Weylandt.  Many of us want to help his family somehow since he and his girlfriend were expecting a baby.  So, for those of you that also want to help his family and honor the memory of a talented cyclist taken before his time, there are several options for you.

1)  #108 T-Shirt from Stomach of Anger.  Stomach of Anger is a sweet t-shirt company that produces cycling themed shirts.  The name comes from Andy Schleck's quote after losing Stage 15 of the Tour de France to Alberto Contador due to "the chain incident".  This t-shirt is simple black with 108 in white on the front and is available in Mens, Womens, and Youth sizes.  108 was Weylandt's number during the Giro d'Italia.  All proceeds from the sales will be given directly to the fund set up by Team Leopard Trek for Wouter's family.  The shirt is only available until May 29, after the completion of the Giro.

2) Wouter Weylandt Memorial Road ID.  Personally, I'm a huge fan of Road ID.  I have the FIXX which I wear 24/7 and its reassuring to know that no matter what, someone will can find out who I am.  Road ID produced a special Elite bracelet honoring Wouter for Team Leopard Trek to wear during the Amgen Tour of California and decided that it should be made available to the public too.  Once again 100% of the proceeds go to the fund set up by the team.  

3)  Just donate to the fund.  You can do this through Road ID's site and receive a $5 gift card for every $10 donated or you can just donate directly through Team Leopard Trek's fund page.

4)  Participate your local Ride of Silence.  If you are unable to donate money through one of these options but want to honor Wouter then the best way is to do the Ride of Silence tomorrow night.  These are going on nationwide at approximately 7:00pm.  Here is the information on the closest ROS in Cleveland.  As far as I know, there isn't one organized for the Akron area.

5)  Wear an armband.  Black arm bands are a mourning custom that has been around since the 1700's.  However, its not as popular in States as it is in Europe.  However, many cyclists world wide have taken up wearing one on their rides in Wouter's honor, most specifically on May 14.  You can buy one or make one.  They are worn around the left bicep.

Franklin D. Roosevelt wearing a mourning band.

Most importantly, pedal safe.