'It’s like a war zone': Cape Town memorial ride for Idries Sherrif highlights cycling dangers

Cyclists in Cape Town on Sunday gathered at Mouille Point before riding to Maiden’s Cove in memory of Idries Sherrif. 

Sherrif was killed in a car crash last December after colliding with a driver who was allegedly drunk.

Pedal Power Association CEO Neil Robinson stated that the issue is not so much a cyclist-versus-motorist problem, but rather one of lawbreakers versus law-abiding road users. He urged members of the cycling community to remain vigilant and to display exemplary conduct on the road.

"Most of us drive cars that are here today," Robinson said. "So we're not just purely cyclists, or runners or motor vehicle owners and drivers. We're either law breakers or law abiders. You do 61 in a 60 zone, you're breaking the law."

Robinson also recounted a dangerous incident the group narrowly escaped on their way to Clifton. He described a situation in Sea Point Main Road at the circle where a woman drove through the traffic cordon and almost knocked three or four cyclists off their bicycles.

According to Robinson, this is a reality faced every second of the day when cyclists are out on their bikes. He noted that it feels like a war zone and that riders should not have to feel that way. He emphasised that they are forced to ride defensively and frequently experience moments where they narrowly escape serious injury.