The annual “Respect the Cyclist” (Respeta al Ciclista) cycling event was held with great success at the Asunción Botanical Garden and Zoo. A large number of participants gathered for the traditional ride, which is organised to promote safer road conditions for cyclists.
The event aims to educate the public, particularly motorists, about crucial traffic regulations designed to protect those on two wheels. This year’s ride continued its important mission of fostering a culture of mutual respect among all road users in the capital.
A call for awareness on the roads
The core message of the event, organised by Cyclesport S.A. and coordinated by the Directorate of Sports and Youth of the Municipality of Asunción, is a simple yet vital one. It seeks to remind all citizens that the bicycle is a recognised mode of transport. Therefore, cyclists have a right to be on the road and must be protected.
The campaign specifically highlights the legal requirement for drivers of cars and motorcycles to maintain a minimum distance of 1.5 metres when overtaking a cyclist. This regulation is fundamental to preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of vulnerable road users.
Legal framework for cyclist protection
The “Respect the Cyclist” initiative is not merely an appeal for courtesy; it is grounded in Paraguayan law. Organisers reminded participants and the public that the 1.5-metre overtaking rule is explicitly mandated by existing legislation. Specifically, this provision is contained within Law 5016/2014, the National Traffic and Road Safety Act. This law provides a comprehensive framework for all traffic conduct in the country.
Furthermore, the rights and infrastructure for cyclists are reinforced by a more specialised piece of legislation. Law 5430/2015 formally establishes the rules for bicycle circulation and mandates the creation of a National Network of Preferential Bicycle Lanes.
Tracing the route through the city
Participants in this year’s mass gathering embarked on a carefully planned route that started and finished within the scenic grounds of the Asunción Botanical Garden. After departing from the gardens, the procession of cyclists travelled along several of the city’s key thoroughfares. The initial part of the journey took them along Avenida Primer Presidente, Julio Correa, and onto the major arteries of Avenida San Martín and República Argentina.
The “Respect the Cyclist” ride course continued through Facundo Machain and Camilo Recalde before reaching the first designated hydration point on Isaac Kostianovky street, ensuring riders remained refreshed throughout the journey. From there, the tour passed Plaza Pedro J. Caballero, which served as another hydration station. The tour then proceeded along RI 3 Corrales and the busy Avenida Eusebio Ayala, a major east-west corridor in the city.
Afterwards, the route guided them onto Avenida Choferes del Chaco, Herminio Giménez, and Santa Cruz de la Sierra, where another hydration stop was located. The ride also passed through Plaza Emilio Cubas before navigating India Juliana street. Finally, the cyclists travelled along Avenida Sacramento for the last leg, which led them back to the Botanical Garden to conclude the event.
Community celebration and prizes
Upon completion of the city-wide tour, the event concluded with a celebratory gathering. The large and enthusiastic crowd reflected the strong community support for the road safety initiative. To thank participants for their involvement and dedication, organisers held a prize draw. The highlight of the raffle was the grand prize, a brand-new Specialized Rockhopper 29-inch mountain bike. The fortunate winner of the bicycle was Gloria Galeano López, who took home the top prize of the day.
Organisers expressed their satisfaction with the turnout and the positive reception of their ongoing campaign to protect cyclists on the nation’s roads.
