My friend and teammate Matt Peterson was tragically struck and killed by a car while on a training ride today. He was with several other riders on the penninsula south of San Francisco when a police car drifted across both lanes and hit the group. Matt was killed instantly; another rider, Kristy Gough of the Third Pillar team died later in the day from injuries sustained. Details are scarce and unreliable.
When I started racing 24hrs, Matt was one of the only people I knew with 24hr experience, having completed seven of them. He never tired of my myriad questions, always encouraging me and offering advice. In 2005, my first and Matt’s final year of 24hr racing, we trained and travelled together to several races including the 24 Hours of Adrenalin World Championships in Whistler. Matt rode an impressive 13 laps in horrendous conditions in the rain, mud and cold in what was called by some the most brutal 24hr race ever. Recently he wrote me, explaining his view of 24hr racing, “I don’t think anyone can really understand until they try it. I wouldn’t trade those 7 days and nights on the bike for anything, because I think it shaped me as a person in some way.” Matt’s dedication and determination on his bicycle were truly inspirational; only last weekend he completed a goal three years in the making of winning his category at the Merco Criterium. An unbelievable tragedy. Sending my thoughts and love to the families of all involved.
Condolenses, thoughts and prayers can now be written and read at www.rememberingmatt.blogspot.com
UPDATE: Nice article about both victims here.
Sarah, My condolences to you and the other members of roaring mouse. Rest in peace, Matt. –Dale Phelps, Longmont Colorado
Left by Dale Phelps on March 10th, 2008