Richard DeBernardis, President of Perimeter Bicycling Association of America
Richard DeBernardis, President of Perimeter Bicycling Association of America

Perimeter Bicycling  Association of America’s President Richard DeBernardis released the following statement about the death of El Tour de Tucson cyclist, John Henderson. Henderson was struck by a motorist on the Frontage Road near Sunset Road. Henderson was pronounced dead at the scene.

“I was made aware of John Henderson’s accident from the moment it happened and prayed for John to pull through.  Minutes later I was informed that John didn’t make it.  At that very moment my heart sank and was filled with sadness as though I lost my own brother.

“Today I spoke with John’s partner and told him that he is not alone in this loss and that he has the hearts and support of everyone involved with El Tour de Tucson.   Bill, John’s partner, told me that half way through El Tour, he met up with John to give him coffee and told him that it was ok to quit, but John did not want to give up even though he was cold, freezing and wet.  John was determined to finish.

“I told Bill that we are here for him and John’s family and will honor and respect the wishes of the family.  For now, we ask everyone – volunteers, El Tour cyclists, support staff, police agencies, sponsors and everyone associated with El Tour – to keep John’s family in their prayers and thoughts over the Thanksgiving Holidays to help them through this tragic loss.  Our love, prayers and thoughts are with John, his partner and family.  It breaks my heart to send out this message.”

Richard J. DeBernardis

Founder & Executive Director

El Tour de Tucson & Perimeter Bicycling Association of America Inc.

 

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