Share the Road 5K returns Saturday to honor cyclist Raymond Butler, raise awareness for roadway safety
ECLECTIC, Ala. (WAKA) — Runners and community members are invited to participate in the 4th Annual Share the Road, Remembering Raymond Butler 5K on Saturday, May 30, to honor the memory of Raymond Butler and raise awareness about bicycle safety.
The event was founded by Rebecca Butler Gilbert after her brother, Raymond Butler, was struck by a vehicle while riding his bicycle home from work on Aug. 29, 2022. Gilbert says Butler, an avid cyclist, runner, canoeist and athlete, was less than a half-mile from his home when the crash occurred. He died the following day from internal injuries. He was 74. Gilbert talked to Action 8’s Estee Morrison in the interview above about how her brother inspired her throughout her life.
Organizers say the race aims to remind drivers and cyclists that roadways are meant to be shared. Under Alabama law, cyclists have the same legal right to use roadways as motorists, and organizers encourage drivers to watch for cyclists and pass with caution.
Proceeds from the event will be used to purchase additional “Share the Road” signs for local roadways. Organizers say 40 signs have already been installed using funds raised from previous races.
The Share the Road, Remembering Raymond Butler 5k, begins at 7:45 a.m. Saturday at Elmore County High School.
For registration and additional information, click here.
