Sadly, we got yet another tragic reminder today that bike racing can be a dangerous sport.
And this time, it happened in our own back yard.
The following notice went out Thursday from the El Dorado Race Series by Bikeable Communities, via email and Facebook.
Tuesday at the El Dorado Race Series in Long Beach.
We are deeply saddened to report that our friend and colleague Gerry Gutierrez passed away earlier today.
We know that everyone in our community is saddened at this incredible loss and want to give heart felt condolences to his wife, Stephanie, to his entire family and his many many friends. He truly was a very special member of our community and a beloved family man.
When available we will post any information on a memorial and a location where people can post their condolences and comments about this wonderful and much loved man.
Then there was this in an email from Allyson Vought.
Sadly, Gerry had a crash in the Masters race on the first lap at El Dorado her in Long Beach for reasons yet to be revealed and he never regained consciousness.
I and many others had the great pleasure to know Gerry from our group rides together, and he was a great rider with a warm and engaging soul. His Pop’s, Gerry Gutierrez Sr. was a racer from the 90’s at Eldo as well, and had JUST returned to riding from much prompting from Jr.
According to Gerry Gutierrez’ Facebook page, he lived in Downey and worked as physical education teacher in Beverly Hills.
Gutierrez posted this from the previous week’s El Dorado race on Facebook.
It was his final post.
Unfortunately, no other information is available at this time. Hopefully, we’ll get more details soon.
This is at least the 44th bicycling fatality in Southern California this year, and the 18th that I’m aware of in Los Angeles County.
My deepest sympathy and prayers for Gerry Gutierrez and all his family and loved ones.
Thanks to Allyson Vought and Danny Gamboa for the heads-up.
