Greatness comes in many forms. Some are great because of how they can inspire others, some because of their unrivaled ability to perform, and then there are those that can make an indelible impression on you because they're filled with amazing kindness and warmth.
Greatness comes in many forms. Some are great because of how they can inspire others, some because of their unrivaled ability to perform, and then there are those that can make an indelible impression on you because they're filled with amazing kindness and warmth.
Once in a great while you will find someone who embodies all of those things, and it is with deep sadness that I have to report that one of "The Great Ones" -- Andy Werth -- passed away earlier this morning.
Andy had been fighting a neurological disorder for the past couple of years while being cared for by his family.
He was a multi-time National Champion who always had a kind word of advice for the newbie on the ride. I know this because many years ago I was the "new guy" and one of the privileged who was able to learn from him. Andy was a "father figure" in the peloton that commanded respect for the person he was, although it could just as easily have been for what he had accomplished.
You can't sum up the essence of Andy better than the words of Mark Sommers, the president of his cycling club DCVelo: "Andy's cycling career reads like a Peter Nye book, including competing in six-day races, racing on cinder-ash tracks, and culminating with the stars and stripes of the many National Championships that followed. He will be sorely missed."
So, "thank you" Andy, for the kindness, the advice, the great conversations we had, and most of all for spreading your passion for the sport. Rest in peace our friend, you will be dearly missed.
He leaves behind his wife Eileen and the Werth family, including son Greg, another great contributor to our cycling community.