#ridefornicky A Memorial Ride for Nicky Hayden

On May 22nd 2017 America lost a moto racing icon, Nicky Hayden. Marc Peters known for building Motocross Tracks and Matt Ford owner of the Rock N Road chain of bicycle shops in Orange County California came up with an idea to not only memorialize Nicky Haydens passing, but to bring about a new movement. That movement they called #peaceontheroad. They set out to route a road ride, a 69 mile road ride, to commemorate Hayden's racing number. Several items from companies in the motorsports and cycling world were donated including, socks from DeFeet, Water Bottles from Specialized, food and drinks from Monster and Red Bull. There was a pit stop sponsored by Troy Lee Designs at their store in Laguna Beach and a couple of Nicky's bikes on display courtesy of Honda.


Over 100 participants from all walks of life across multiple sports, came out to support the #ridefornicky to spread the idea of #peaceontheroad and to raise money for the memorial fund.


Nicky's older brother Tommy says a few words prior to the start of the ride, flanked by Johnny O'Mara to his left and Marc Peters and Victor "Slasher" Sheldon on his right.


Some of the key participants Left to Right, including, Brian Lopes, Jeff Ward, Tommy Hayden, Johnny O'Mara, Victor Sheldon, Matt Ford, Marc Peters, Dylan Price, and Jeff Konicke.


Tommy Hayden, leads out one of the many packs that formed throughout the 69 mile memorial ride.


Shortly behind Tommy Hayden was Specialized Bicycles, Southern California Rep, Dylan Price, donning the tribute kit, provided by Squadra.


Brian Lopes and Victor Sheldon lead the main group through Santiago Canyon.


Johnny O'Mara waves as he flies by on his hardtail mountain bike. I heard a rumor he doesn't own a road bike. He did 69 miles staying toward the front of the pack with XC tires.


So much more than just a number that logo represents a legacy of a man that was so much more than his accomplishments on his motorcycle, it also represents one of the most amazing human beings I have ever had the honor of meeting. Rest In Peace Nicky Hayden.