The Geelong Advertiser: Cyclists’ fury after highway hit-run
Carl Dickens
November 17th, 2009
TWO Geelong cyclists told of their anger and frustration yesterday after being struck by a hit-and-run driver at the weekend.
Tom Ainsworth and David Blackborrow were riding south along the Surf Coast Highway at Mt Duneed about 6.30am on Saturday when a white sedan ploughed into them as it turned left.
Mr Blackborrow, the front rider, was catapulted from his bike by the impact, while Mr Ainsworth fell forward on top of his friend. Both men hit their heads on the ground as they landed, battering their helmets and sustaining cuts and bruises.
After composing himself, Mr Blackborrow said his emotions turned from fear to fury as the car failed to stop.
“When I looked up to see the car was still driving off, I was livid,” he said.
“I just can’t believe someone could be so removed from human emotions, to have nearly killed two people and kept on driving.”
The pair were helped by several passing cyclists.
Mr Blackborrow said he hoped the sedan driver was found and punished accordingly.
“How is running someone down in a car and not stopping, any different to deliberately assaulting someone with a weapon with intent to cause injury,” he said.
“People like this need to be dealt with harshly.”
Mr Ainsworth said he felt lucky to be alive.
“If we hadn’t been wearing helmets, we’d both be dead,” he said.
Both men urged motorists to show more consideration to cyclists on the road.
“It’s not just about creating more awareness of cyclists on the road with campaigns, it’s about changing people’s mindsets and psychology about respecting cyclists,” Mr Blackborrow said.
Mr Blackborrow vowed the incident would not deter either cyclist, with the pair continuing their preparations for a triathlon.
Geelong police Constable Tracey Van Looy is investigating Saturday’s incident. Anyone with information is urged to contact Geelong police on 5225 3100 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
