Moving Target,
Issue #5, Fall 1989
On Friday 1st of September over a hundred cc's from dozens of companies, many with p.o.b.'s took time out to gather at Marble Arch. The occasion was the remembrance ride down the length of Oxford St. (at 5 mph, 6 a-breast)in memory of Chris Shaw, ex-wings cc and frame builder at Roberts Cycles.
Chris was killed whilst out on a training ride with Paul Skilbeck when a car rounded a corner out of control, drove up the verge on the wrong side of the road and hit both riders. Chris later died of head injuries despite his helmet which he always wore. Paul very luckily escaped with only a couple of broken toes. At the time of going to print there was no news about any pending prosecution although it is thought that the driver had not been drinking.
One of the ride's organisers Adrian, said later that it was never the intention to organise a protest, however it was as a result of the well co-ordinated publicity that so many assembled despite not knowing Chris personally. It was basically a happy event that developed it's own momentum as it progressed, and a rare moment of unity amongst the cc community. Seldom if ever have so many gathered together. As the cavalcade reached Centre Point 1/4 mile of the street was completely clear of 4 wheeled vehicles. Upon arrival, there was a cacophony of cheers, applause, whistles, hoots and even the ringing of bicycle bells. It was a rare and moving occasion which payed tribute an old colleague and celebrated the job of cycle couriering. As one cc of many summers said on seeing the event from 20 floors up Centre Point "It puts a lump in your throat"
An appeal has been set up by Mountain Biking UK on behalf of Chris' family. All cheques should be made payable to 'Chris Shaw' Address: Mountain Biking U.K. Woodstock House, Luton Road, Faversham, Kent ME13 9HQ.
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