Cyclists, friends and supporters from across the region, including Western Cape premier Alan Winde, saddled up for a memorial ride in honour of 16-year-old Lilitha Lombo, placing flowers at the ghost bike at the site where she died.

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Lombo was killed in a hit-and-run on Tuesday 29 September near the Steynsrust Dam circle in Somerset West while training with her cycling team.

She was struck by an e-hailing vehicle which initially failed to stop. A 42-year-old man was charged with culpable homicide and granted R5 000 bail by the Somerset West Magistrates’ Court on Monday 5 October, with the case postponed to Monday 14 December.

ALSO READ: Lilitha’s last ride: Club calls for justice, road safety after teen death

The memorial event was held on Sunday morning (18 October), starting from and finishing at Waterstone Village. Participants followed a short 8,9 km circular route, coming together to celebrate Lombo’s passion for cycling.

In a Facebook post, Winde thanked Khaltsha Cycles and the Pedal Power Association for their involvement and reiterated the call to stay wider of the rider.

Western Cape Minister of Mobility Isaac Sileku said the ride carried a meaning far beyond the kilometres covered and served as a reminder of why safer roads matter. He expressed hope that her memory would continue to inspire compassion, accountability and a shared commitment to protecting every life on the roads.

ALSO READ: Bail granted to driver in teen cyclist Lilitha Lombo hit-and-run case