I met Simon by random chance while on a bike ride two years ago. My intention that day was to ride alone for 112 miles in preparation for my race at Ironman Canada. Riding a bike alone for 7 hours is lonely. Simon changed that.
While ascending a steep hill at mile 15, Simon pedaled past me with the confidence and speed only known to experienced cyclists. His uniform revealed he raced with an impressive team, far beyond my own skill level.
As he rode past he tapped my shoulder as a friendly “keep up the good work” gesture. I responded in my usual competitive way, by racing him to the crest of the hill. Simon appreciated my tenacity. He introduced himself and we became instant friends and riding buddies for the day.
By mile 50 Simon shared many of his racing stories. He bared his bicycling blunders and told of his racing triumphs. By mile 70 I was laughing so hard and having so much fun I couldn’t remember pedaling the distance.
During the ride Simon helped me improve my cycling skills by sharing his years of knowledge. We stopped a few times to practice racing drills and techniques for my betterment. Throughout the day Simon offered his time, his help, and his knowledge freely. Without ego, Simon selflessly shared himself with a stranger.
When I got terribly tired at mile 100 he let me draft in his slipstream to avoid the headwind. At mile 105 Simon kept my spirits high and encouraged me to stay strong. At mile 110 Simon summoned my remaining strength and raced me to the finish. Mile 112 marked the end to our random ride.
Simon passed away December, 2008.
I only knew Simon for 7 hours. But his impact will last a lifetime. Remembering my day with Simon is a wonderful illustration of how the best things in life are free.
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Your Two Cents:
Awesome that you got to know Simon for those few hours and that he made such an impact on your life. Simon…you rock. I salute you….
Coco
This story reminds me that we never know when the end will come – for any of us. And I think about how I would want to be remembered – and having something like this written about me – would be one of the most powerful experiences, for me, in a life well-lived. Simon did that – what an impact! And what a wonderful tribute – and reminder – of what, really, is important in life…
Terrific proof that we have no idea the impact we make on others.
Oh man, such a heartbreaking ending to such an uplifting story!
Sorry to hear you lost your friend. He sounds like he was a great guy.
Mike
Life is what you leave behind and Simon left you a wonderful memory of him. We should always remember to pay it forward.
Reminds me of that saying: People can come into your life for a reason, for a season, or for a lifetime, etc….
How much we can learn from and enjoy one another in such a short space of time! Fitting tribute! The joy of sharing time!
Great way of remembering Simon. We all learn lessons, however small, in our daily lives. I’m glad to hear such a great memory recounted by you. We all meet random and wonderful people in our lives, it helps to recognize it when it happens.
I truly agree with you, the best things in life are Free!
Wow.. he sounds amazing. What a guy. And now he’s on this blog forever.
And in our minds.
Oh, Squawks. I’m sorry. I think this is a wonderful memory to share, though.
Simon has left his legacy. And you have immortalised it. I am truly sorry to learn about such a great person’s demise.
I am so sorry for your loss…Im sure you made an impact on his life to, as you do with so many other people in this world…Thank you for your voice. Bryce
That is very sweet and I’m so sorry to hear about it… its nice that you got the chance to meet him, even for a short amount of time. Sometimes those people who we only see once and that sort of thing have the biggest impact on us.
I just wanted to thank everyone for your kind words.
Hey Fox,
Thanks for sharing your story, it’s a great example of the power of giving selflessly to others. Life can be unfairly short, but it sure sounds like Simon was the kind of person who really lived every day–more than some people would in a whole lifetime.
Sincerely,
Amanda
Simon sounds like an awesome person. You were certainly fortunate to be around him as I’m sure he felt the same way about you.
The Present is a Present, Cherish It!
-HIB
people treat you so much differently when its inside the bike community. i love it. do anything you can to help. this is an all around sportsman
Its amazing how a short, one off meeting can leave such an everlasting effect on people. You never know who is going to touch you, or who you may touch in your lifetime.
A wonderful story
People like Simon make the ride worthwhile. I didn’t know him but congratulate him on making you feel welcome in a often times very “cold shoulder” sport. Sorry for the communities loss.
Thats a very inspiring and moving story. Its people like Simon who make living worthwhile, the hidden gems of our lives that give us a sparkle. Bless him!
Wow! I read the article expecting to to go on and make a list of all the useful things to learn from the story… and suddenly it ended, beautifully, at 320 words! Eloquence through and through. Thanks!
Gr8 story. I’m sorry for your loss. Thumbs up!
The best part of this story is you choose to share it. Thanks
Oh man, such a heartbreaking ending to such an uplifting story!
Awesome story.. I couldn’t put it any better Iva
Iva December 31st, 2008
Terrific proof that we have no idea the impact we make on others.
Wonderful story. I didn’t see the end coming. Very touching.
This was a wonderful story to come across today. Reminding us (me) to live every moment. Simple pleasures, powerful story.