Humanity

It’s an age-old debate: are humans inherently good, or inherently evil? I wish for the former but typically only see the latter. But then again, I am a young, optimistic, naïve, liberal so I do indeed believe that all humans have the capacity to do and be good. There are so many moments when I am absolutely shocked and appalled by what someone or a group of people have done, but there are also shining moments of brilliance that always bring me back.

Over the last two days I have witnessed many moving events. On Saturday, hundreds of racers and event organizers headed out of Crested Butte towards Star Pass for the third stage of the Crested Butte EWS. It was the first of the day’s two stages. Very unfortunately, it was not written for the day’s events to take place. A vet-class rider, Will Olson, crashed on Trail 400 and died. A huge group of pro men and women stood at 12,000 feet, hearing desperate and bleak radio reports. We watched as an emergency helicopter flew over the mountains from Aspen, and almost as if mother nature knew what had happened, we watched a rain storm roll through the Gunnison National Forest.

Out of respect for Will and his family, the race was cancelled. A heavy feeling immediately fell upon all the racers, organizers, and the town of Crested Butte. A memorial ride was organized for today at noon, and over 200 people showed up to give him a proper send off from the mountain bike community. Racers from all over the world gathered for someone they didn’t know, and with complete sincerity celebrated his life. I have seen countless thoughtful and kind words from organizers, racers, and other cyclists following the tragedy.

These are the things that keep my optimistic heart beating. May you find endless, perfect single-track wherever your soul rests.

http://www.pinkbike.com/news/will-olson-rip-ews-2015.html