What is it like when an event is held for a good cause?
Here in Santa Clarita, at West Creek Park, “Finish The Ride” is an event held to raise awareness for safer roads, allowing communities to enjoy their walks and bicycling without fear for their safety.
“I think it’s amazing what this event is doing and how much community it’s brought together,” said Raquel Olivio, a Finish The Ride attendee.
For eight years, the organization’s’ Streets for Everyone’ initiative has brought the community together to recognize the importance of this issue and shed light on people’s experiences.
“It’s amazing, I’m very happy that my family is here, my friends, my team, my brothers. It’s incredible, I’m really happy,” said Horacio Sosa, another Finish The Ride attendee.
The organizer and creator of this event, Damian Kevitt, was involved in a hit-and-run crime and was severely injured, nearly killing him, in 2013. His story has become impactful to the community, and they recognize his strength and bravery.
“I think it’s a really great cause, and I was moved to learn the story of the founder of this event and the incredible hurdle that he had to overcome just to be able to be here,” said Stew Herrera, another Finish The Ride attendee.
Finish The Ride allows the community to participate in bicycling and walking marathons. Participants have recognized the inspiration behind this event and what it means, not only for Damian, but also for people who do these activities in their daily lives.
“We do ride for my daughter on the ride that we do from San Fran to Los Angeles,” Olivio said.
Damian also made sure to make this fun for little ones who are in the Halloween spirit.
This is an event that is not just about the miles accomplished, but also about the message behind it, reminding riders, pedestrians, and drivers that roads are for everyone.
