October 9/07 8:11 am - Sad News

Posted by Editor on 10/9/07
 

Sad News

We are very sorry to report that B.C.-based mountain bike event organizer Richard Juryn passed away on Sunday, one of three kayakers thrown out of their vessel after it overturned in high waves in Howe Sound. Juryn and Denis Fontaine were found in the water by emergency rescue personnel in an unresponsive state, and later died in hospital. The third man is in critical condition.

Richard Juryn was deeply involved in in the west coast cycling community, a partner in Shore Events, which has been involved in almost every major mountain bike event for the past five years. Crankworx, World Cups, Nationals, IMBA's international conference in Whistler - Richard was at all of them, and often looking after the myriad requests of the media (such as myself).

This wasn't just a business for Richard, he raced and rode constantly, and was always full of enthusiasm for the sport. He and I would often meet at trade shows or at Sea Otter, where he was drumming up support of B.C. events, and participating. People willing to give back so much to our sport are rare, and he will be missed by all of us. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family.

Please post any rememberances in the Forums - a thread has already been started.

An article on the tragedy can be found Here