In Memory of Kristy Gough and Matt Peterson

As has been reported widely in the Bay Area, Matt Peterson and Kristy Gough were killed yesterday morning riding along Stevens Creek Road in Cupertino. I have been on the same route countless times and rode part of the same route on Saturday. It is considered to be one of the safer rides around, since there is a decent shoulder and, typically, the traffic is not too heavy. A police officer on routine patrol crossed the double yellow line and hit them in a head-on collision. According to reports, the police officer stated he must have fallen asleep at the wheel.

Kristy had been a star triathlete and more recently, an Olympic hopeful in cycling. Matt Peterson recently won his division at the Merco Credit Union Cycling Classic in Merced, a goal he had been working towards with great diligence. More importantly, though, they were two well-loved friends, a daughter, a son, inspiring teammates. There is a sad mood in the cycling community. My heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of Kristy and Matt. I also feel sadness for the police officer; although he is clearly at fault here, I am sure he will carry a heavy burden.