Our friend Matt Paterson was struck & killed by a car while riding his bike yesterday. Kristy Gough of Third Pillar Racing was also killed in the same accident.
At this time when so many of us are shocked and saddened at this unexplainable loss, we can also celebrate Matt's incredible life & achievements & passion. This website is dedicated to him. Please click the "comments" link below to share your kind words about Matt here, as well as thoughts & prayers for his family & friends.
A memorial service for Matt will be held later this week in the San Francisco Bay Area. Please watch this space for details about the service. All will be welcome to attend.
Matt Peterson, 1978-2008
Matt Peterson and Kristy Gough were struck and killed by a car while riding their bikes on March 9, 2008. We will miss them both.
286 comments:
1 – 200 of 286 Newer› Newest»What can one say about Matt. He was truly a talented cyclist and a generous and kind human being. He always had something nice to say to EVERYONE. Alays encouraging the rest of us to strive to be our best, I will always remember the "epic" ride he put together that happened to be my first team ride back after being off the bike for quite a while. The whole ride went up and up and up, and as I struggled to keep the group in sight, he always came back down the hill to offer words of encouragement to get me up the hill. A true class act that lived his life to the fullest. I will miss him.
Scott
to Matt's family, friends, and teammates, I send you my heartfelt condolences during this challenging time.
Lorri
Matt...I am lucky to have known you and you
will be missed. I will remember you and your smile. You were a truly good person.
to Matt's family...I feel for your loss. You are in my prayers
Rick
I am so sorry for your loss, and for the riders' families. I know that road well, and this could have happened to me and my wife, or any of thousands of other cyclists, on any of our roads.
Unfortunately, Leslie Griffy of the Mercury News used the tragedy as a platform to complain about cyclists' "bad behavior." I don't get my buttons pushed very often, but her article got me pretty pissed:
http://www.mercurynews.com/ci_8513728
I'm sick of the excuses people make for fatally bad drivers!
Regards and sympathy,
Dave Ross
Portola Valley, CA
On behalf of myself and Alto Velo, please accept our sincere
condolences. We are all very sorry for your loss. Please know that the
Roaring Mouse team and the family and friends of Matt and Christie are
in our thoughts.
Having lost a teammate just over a year ago, I realize it is hard to
grasp the magnitude of what has happened. If there is anything I can
offer in the way of how to plan a memorial ride, help with how to
speak with the media, or just to listen please contact me at any time.
Regards,
Brian Peterson
Webcor/Alto Velo
I'd like to reiterate Brian's comments and let you know that
Alto Velo is here for you if you need us. We are thinking of
you and we know how difficult the next weeks and months
will be.
Please get a hold of myself or Brian if there is anything
we can do.
Condolences.
Paul DeBacker
Webcor/Alto Velo
i did not know matt well, but i was pleased to be in his company and was inspired how he applied himself this season and how it was paying dividends in his results.
i will remember him fondly.
It's hard to express the sorrow I feel for the friends and family of
Matt and Christy. On behalf of Humboldt County cyclists I offer my
deepest sympathy to those who knew and loved them. You are in our
thoughts and prayers.
Most sincerely,
Tim Daniels
President, Bigfoot Bicycle Club
Humboldt County, CA
My condolences to Chris, Julie, Paule and the rest of the Roaring Mouse crew. Also to the families of Matt and Christy.
Berry Stevens
Passion Trail Bikes
Although I didn't know Matt personally, I know I speak for a lot of people that this unexpected tragedy is affecting all of us in different ways. I won't be able to express the loss of a fellow cyclists in the same way as someone who knew him, but I am deeply saddened as Scott was local cyclists who I probably saw out there . My wishes go out to his family, teammates and friends.
Julian
I am devastated to wake up and read about the senseless loss of our friend and teammate Matt. I recently saw the photos of his win and spoke to Larry about Matt last week. Immediately I said to myself,
this victory could not have happened to a better person; someone
who truly deserved to taste victory after years of hard work, dedication, and friendship. I was ALWAYS excited to see Matt on the roads no matter what team I was riding with. Please bring me in your hearts as you assemble at Ocean Beach to remember Matt and celebrate his life.
I will take with me his focus and determination towards a goal and will remember the energy that Matt
would harness to achieve it. As we know, in this world there are Talkers and Do'ers...Matt was an XXL Do'er.
Oceans of Love,
Teddy Allen
Matt was my roommate when he first moved to San Francisco. He was full of life, passion and determination.
He was an extraordinary individual always giving everything he attempted his all, anything less just wouldn't be Matt.
My deepest sympathies for his family, friends and teammates.
I am glad to have known Matt and am sorry that he is gone.
If there could be more people like Matt, the world would truly be a better place.
Matt, you will be missed.
Dave
I had been talking to Matt quite a bit recently, and we were emailing back and forth this week. I always thought he was one of the classy cyclists out there.
I was so impressed with his Merco victory that I sent an email out to my team last Monday entitled "Inspiration", and it was all about Matt.
The last words he wrote to me via email were, "... but I've been really happy."
I had never seen him happier. At the crit on Saturday, he commented to me that he had never been involved in a field sprint because he had never been in position to contest one until this year. I told him that he was the only person I'd ever known who had won a race and never sprinted.
I will miss Matt so much. It's a huge loss. I cried when I found out what happened last night.
Love,
Raymond Cogan
Fusion
The members of the San Jose Bicycle Club are saddened by your loss of your team mate. Every time we ride these roads in the future we will remember our fallen competitor.
Our condolences to the families, friends and team mates of Matt and Kristy.
Jonathan
SJBC President
Though I never knew him personally, I had the pleasure of riding with him and two other Roaring Mouse riders for a large part of this year’s Snelling Road Race. I was struck by his and his teammates’ incredible kindness and friendliness throughout the event. It was such a stark contrast to the normal attitudes in the heat of a race. What a great person and a great club. That is how I will remember him.
My sincere condolences to Matt’s family and the entire Roaring Mouse community. He will be missed in the peloton.
Regards,
Steve Ransom
Dolce Vita Cycling
My heartfelt condolences go out to Matt's family, and to the Roaring Mouse team.
The bay area cycling community lost a couple of its brightest stars this weekend and we will all be riding with heavy hearts for quite some time.
Chris
As a co-worker of Matt's I can not say enough how much we will miss his leadership as well as his spirit and desire to the best at anything you set out to do. We are all stunned and offer all our love and condolences to Matt's friends,teammates and family.He will be missed by us all.
Patrick Buchanan
I'd like to send condolences on behalf of everyone from Squadra Ovest. We are heartbroken over this tragedy. Matt was a friend to members of our team so this is very personal for us. Anything we can do to help, please let us know.
Dan Tedford
Squadra Ovest
i met matt when he firsted moved to sf and we worked together at walmart.com. his spirit will be remembered by anyone who met him. definately a guy that made an impression of passion when you met him. be at peace my brother.
douglas pursley
To Matt's friends, family, teammates and colleagues...I wish you peace and healing.
Matt, may the road rise to meet you.
I am so sad.
Mason Cornelius
Code 3 Women's Cycling
With a heavy heart I send my condolences to Matt’s family, friends, and teammates. Though I never had the honor of meeting Matt, it is evident that he was someone who touched the lives of others in a very positive way. A great competitor, but most of all a great person. He will be missed.
Erin Lindheim
Code 3 Women's Cycling
i had only met matt once. never met kristy. and yet still, there has been a silence in our home - sadness, really - since we heard about their deaths. these were people who were young, athletic & living their lives, fulfilling their potential. they have families who love them, and friends who called them family. they weren't behaving badly or questionably. simply by the act of riding their bikes & devoting their time to training with friends and teammates, they were promoting cycling as a way of life & health. this could have been any one of us out there.
i haven't been able to stop thinking about these people who i didn't even know and my heart is so heavy. i can only imagine what their friends & families must be feeling. i grieve for everyone who loved matt & kristy and is left to deal with trying to make sense of this tragedy.
my heart goes out to you!
julie rogers
Please pass my deepest condolences to the Peterson and Gough families. I am so sorry for your loss; my prayers are with the souls of Matt and Christy. May they ride steadfastly into the Great White Light of Eternal Love!
The site of the enormous tragedy is just a mile from my house. I had the honor to spend a few hours there this evening in prayer. A little memorial was started; two crosses are now on the bike lane made of the adhesive tape the EMTs left behind. On the shoulder the are two beautiful flower bouquets in water bottle vases.
I gather their bananas, sun glass lens, water bottle cap, CO2 cartridge and a piece of rim with a broken spoke and put them on a alter. These are sacred items and have been treated with the utmost respect.
Two hats (IMBA and ROMP) are near the flowers; I left a card with a special prayer with my treasured hawk feather.
Your Brother,
RichA.
To Matt's family and friends - It was with shock and great sadness when I heard of the horrific accident and I feel very deeply for your loss. I as well as many others will be thinking of you when out on my bike.
Peace with you always.
Jeanine
Code 3 Racing
To the family and friends, I am truly sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to you.
On behalf of the Victory Velo Bike Shop and Racing Team, please accept our offer of condolences for the tragic loss of Matt Peterson. I had the pleasure of watching him race in Merced. It was a very impressive isplay of ability and spirit. In speaking to some of his teammates, they had nothing but great things to say about him, and I'm sure he will be sorely missed.
Michael O'Rourke
President, Victory Velo Racing
I was fortunate to have met Matt on maybe 4 or 5 occasions. He was a terrific guy, a wonderful addition to the community and he will be missed dearly. My deepest condolences to his loved ones.
My teammate Doug and I raced the road race with you guys last weekend because we couldn’t get into the master 4’s. Your boys were ery proud of the Saturday win and then went on to take the win Sunday s well. Matt was sporting the winner’s jersey, and was riding well.
Our condolences from the crew at Cycling-Training.com. Matt will be missed.
-Reese Gary
I don't know Matt, but as a cyclist back on the UC Davis team, I know that the training and racing makes you harder. You go through the elements, sometimes nearing close calls. When you get home, you begin to recall the near-death experience you just encountered.
For Matt, he didn't have that chance to go home and tell his story with his cycling buddies afterward. I am glad that he got to fulfull his last wish, which was to win the Merced Criterium. He dreamed about it for years, from what I've read. Not many people get to complete their life with the biggest win ever. I can hope to imagine that he died while doing what he loved to do the most.
I did not know Matt but just learned from one of my Alto Velo teammates that we raced against him & the Mouse team on Saturday at Menlo Park.
I ride that stretch of road frequently and will be thinking of Matt and Kristy whenever I pass through.
Heartfelt condolences to everyone, this is terrible.
Joshua Hadley
San José
My heart has been heavy since learning that one of the poor cyclists lost in that tragic accident was Matt.
He came into our family's life not via cycling, but as my sons's volunteer soccer coach for one of Brisbane's AYSO teams. His willingness to give of his time to coach a bunch of kids is yet another exaple of how he lived his life...with enthusiasm & vigor.
In reflection, I think only a handful of people are living life to its fullest, and Matt was one of them. It makes his death harder to understand, yet one could think that he was lucky to have lived such a full life in his 29 short years.
With sincere condolences to Matt's friends and family,
Michelle Chan and Mac
Matt you will be missed. My thoughts and prayers to your family...
I've only known Matt for a few years but he was one of those guys who you've felt for your whole life. He was good friend and made everyone around him always smile. He was a big competitive kid which is probably why we got along so well.
I am happy to have been part of his life.
I raced against Matt a few years ago. As a member of a 'rival' team that was so genuinely friendly I would often find myself cheering for him at races even against my teammates. In similar fashion, I would see him cheering on the rest of us and his teammates (usually from the comfort of a chaise lounge (e.g., SF Giro) and often with a beer in hand). I was really excited to see his podium win last week at the Merco Crit as this was a sign of all his hard work in the offseason. This was undoubtedly going to be a great season for Matt.
I will miss racing with/against Matt and talking with him at races. My deepest sympathy to his family, friends and teammates.
Ken A.
Squadra Ovest Racing
I'd only known Matt since last summer, when I showed up for a Roaring Mouse training ride looking to join the team. We'd never met but he was totally friendly and open. I was grateful, given that I was a bit nervous in something like a tryout scenario. I could tell quickly that he'd be a great teammate. We chatted for an hour or so rolling over to the Paradise loop, and then Matt dropped the hammer on everyone. I got dropped before too long, and felt pretty sorry for myself. When I caught back on, half-sputtering some apology about slowing people down, Matt was the first guy to say forget about it and encourage me to join the team. We talked the rest of the way back into the city.
Looking back on that moment it speaks to something about Matt that I'll continue to remember, respect, and emulate: his ability to be a fierce competitor and yet remain sportsmanlike, fair, fun, and thoughtful. In hearing and reading other people's memories I see these same themes coming up again and again. I was always glad to see that Matt had shown up for a group ride, both because I knew I'd get pushed and also because I knew I'd have a good time. He did a lot to keep our team both driven and decent, and it earned him well-deserved respect from his teammates and rivals alike.
The last time I saw Matt was last Thursday at the track in the park. He was between intervals and clearly a little gassed, but you could tell he was still floating after his win at Merco. I wasn't there, so I was glad to have the chance to congratulate him. As I did so, I remember thinking that he really deserved it. Obviously there was no way I could have known how different that moment would look only days later.
I hope that Matt's family and close friends have a sense of how big and how positive an impact he made, even on people who didn't know him that long. I know I won't be alone in feeling his absence.
Andrew
I remember my first Crit with Roaring Mouse. Matt, Zack and I were the new cat 5s and we started our racing at the Freemont Crit. We had such a blast racing together. Matt really loved biking, and biking hard. I have lots of great memories of him, the best one was seeing him stand on top of the podium at Merco! Way to go Matt!!! We love you and we will miss you.
Jan Weissenberger
In behalf of the Velo Girls we would like to extend our prayers to the teammates, friends and family. Pls. let us know if there something we can do to help.
God Bless
You never want to read or write comments such as these for anyone in your life.
Matt lived a passionate and enthusiastic life that inspired those of us around him. Whether it was the time that we spent driving together to races or the time that we spent on the bike, Matt always brought hope and optimism to the conversations.
Those of us who shared Matt in our lives have a piece of him within each of us. It is our duty to share that piece of Matt with the rest of world.
Matt, godspeed on your journey to eternal happiness and paradise.
love, kyle
My thoughts and prayers go out to the families and to Roaring Mouse Cycles. I was fortunate enough to be walking by Matt and the rest of his team while warming up for the MERCO Cycling Classic, that he reached out and placed his hand on "The Rock" and told me that he would see the rock after his race on the winners stage. His dream ride came through and I am blessed to have been a part of his day and I will never forget that one moment.
Shay Lopez
Sponsor Liaison/Marketing Director
MERCO Credit Union
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to family, teammates, friends, and the local cycling community including his competitors. From reading the news story and blog comments it's obvious he will be missed by everyone fortunate enough to be touched by his life.
Let the memory and accomplishments of Matt serve as an example of how to live life to the fullest. You will be missed, remembered and celebrated.
Our hearts go out to your family, friends and teammates.
What I'm left thinking about Matt is how much he supported and encouraged all of us. He always saw the positive side of everything. His determination and dedication on his bicycle were truly inspirational.
I remember Matt calling me the night before a big race. I didn't even think anyone knew I was racing the next day. Not only did Matt remember, he called with last minute advice and support.
Matt's family came to support him at a race we were both at. Their love and support for one another was beautiful; my thoughts and prayers are with his family. I cannot begin to fathom the grief you must be experiencing.
My deepest condolences to Matt and Kristy's many friends and family. I am so sad to read of this news. My heart is with you.
-Anne
I met Matt shortly after we both had moved to SF while playing flag football in a rec league. He was competitive on the field and a good friend off the field. We hung out through my years in SF both playing rec sports and at social gatherings. He was a true gentleman in every sense of the phrase.
Matt thanks for being my rec teammate and moreover for being a friend... you will be missed but never forgotten.
My heart goes out to Matt's family, friends and the riding community. We will all hold Matt close as we continue on and use his inspiration to push towards our goals.
I've been spending the past day and a half thinking about all of the rides, beers, and conversations I've had with Matt since we met two years ago, and every thought involves lots of smiles. Both him and me.
Matt lived his live his with an overwhelming enthusiasm that was nothing if not sincere. He had a drive for excellence, but without the ego that so often comes along with it. I feel lucky to have met him and experience his energy and love for living life fully. I hope to do the same.
William Johnston
I had the pleasure of meeting Matt last year while he was trainging for Ironman Lake Placid. He trained with our SF Tri Club IronStrudel group. He certainly was classy, charismatic full of life. I remember him telling me at Aquatic Park in the middle of a brick workout that he was going to be racing IMUSA with his sister. He was so proud and excited. I thought to myself, his sister is lucky. He was generous with his time, volunteering and giving back to the community. He handed me water at the Escape from Alcatraz last year on the run course. Matt will be missed. On behalf of SF Tri Club we offer our condolences to his family, friends and teammates.
Janelle S. Hyatt
SF Tri Club President
We're in shock - we are so so sorry for the loss of Matt and Kristy. Horribly tragic.
I didn't know matt all that well.
We met a few times.
It was a shock to hear of this tragedy.
It hurts whenever something like this happens to someone you know.
My heartfelt condolences to his family during this difficult period
Roshan
While I never met Matt, it is clear he was a fine person who will be dearly missed by all of those who have been blessed by knowing him.
Stay strong,
Doug
Our hearts goes out to Matt and his family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Matt, you have left a lasting memory for all of us. You will forever remain in our hearts.
I send my sincerest thoughts and prayers you and your family. I don't know if we will ever understand such tragedy but I know your smiling face will always remind us of your class character. Rest on friend
Always,
Matthew
My husband used to be a team-mate of Matt. We were extremely saddened today by the news - we are overwhelmed by the loss of two people living life at 100%+ and I am very, very sorry for your loss. With warm thoughts and heavy hearts from Minneapolis...
To Matt's family and friends,
I just met Matt on Saturday at the Menlo Crit. We were both watching the cat 4 womens race and he made a comment to me, which I countered with calling him skinny. He laughed and said he has never been called skinny. Now knowing what Matt has accomplished not only weight loss wise but also as a cyclist, is inspiring. He was full of life and will be missed greatly by the cycling community. My prayer are with his family and friends at this time and I know he will be missed but not forgoten
Kim
Our prayers are with your family.
May you rest in peace
I'm so sorry for the loss. How sad for so many. My condolences.
no words...the wind at your back now and forever...
such a long long time to be gone and a short time to be here...
B
Peterson was a great guy who always greeted you with a smile. I have had some great times with Matt...one of my favorites was when we were in Vegas and we were at the end of the night (and our cash) and we plunked down 20 bucks a piece on the wheel game. The long shot 40-1 looked good to both of us, so we put our money down and wished for the best. The wheel stopped on our number, and we went KABONKERS!!! we were yelling, and jumping up and down, and people were coming from down the slot machine rows to see what happened. As the celebration ended, and we were done congratulating each other, we looked up to see that the wheel had moved one space, and we actually did not win a thing! We shared a long laugh, and to tell you the truth, I am happier now to have shared this story with him than the money we would have won.
Rest in peace Peterson, you are a hell of a guy and we will miss you.
MARLOW
Scott Marlow
Scottsdale, AZ
smarlow92@yahoo.com
Peterson was a great guy who always greeted you with a smile. I have had some great times with Matt...one of my favorites was when we were in Vegas and we were at the end of the night (and our cash) and we plunked down 20 bucks a piece on the wheel game. The long shot 40-1 looked good to both of us, so we put our money down and wished for the best. The wheel stopped on our number, and we went KABONKERS!!! we were yelling, and jumping up and down, and people were coming from down the slot machine rows to see what happened. As the celebration ended, and we were done congratulating each other, we looked up to see that the wheel had moved one space, and we actually did not win a thing! We shared a long laugh, and to tell you the truth, I am happier now to have shared this story with him than the money we would have won.
Rest in peace Peterson, you are a hell of a guy and we will miss you.
MARLOW
Scott Marlow
Scottsdale, AZ
smarlow92@yahoo.com
We were so sad to hear such horrible news. My husband and I ride together and attend races. Our thoughts go out the Team and to the families and to all cyclists feeling the pain of loss of cycling friends - known and not known. We hope that somehow this small comment will bring a tiny piece of comfort to you all.
Love, Becky and Alan
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of two amazing lives. I really can't find the words to truly express how I feel. I can't imagine how family, friends and team mates are feeling. Our lives are precious and so fragile at times. My heart and healing thoughts go out to all who knew Matt and kristy and their friend who is still in hospital. Compassion too for the person that did this, for I am sure they will have the pain of living with this.
All my love from Niki and PROMAN Racing
I made a modest donation to the Open Space Trust in Matt and Kristy's honor. I encourage folks to do something positive in response to this tragedy, to help offset some of the feeling of powerlessness, if not the anger and despair.
Matt was my co-worker and team-mate. He got me back on the bike after 20 years of being off of it. He was so passionate about cycling that he somehow convinced me to race the Freemont Crit after only one month of cycling. HR 190+ on the first lap and I got DQ'd on the second. Nevertheless, Matt was the first person to come up to me and congratulate me on my effort. He was so proud of me.
At work, Matt's passion was infectious and genuine; but, cycling was his calling. And the solace that I have is that he was doing what he loved up until the end.
This is very sad. You will be missed. My condolences to family and friends.
-kev
I am so sorry - God Bless Matt and Christie and all of their family and friends. May they ride their bikes into eternity...
Diane from Moss Beach
I just wanted to tell you how sorry I am to hear of your fallen team mate. I don't even know the parties involved and I still can't seem to keep my mind off it. I have ridden that stretch of road many, many times and am sure it will never be the same. My deepest condolences to the family and friends of all involved. Bruce
Hey Chris, was reading an article this morning about the tragic death of some riders out for a training ride. It seems one was one of your team riders. Very sorry to hear. My thoughts go out to the family & friends of the cyclists and the Roaring Mouse family
I felt sick last night when I saw the news, then Jared told me today it was one of your team riders and friends. I'm so so sorry to hear this news. My heart goes out to you all. Casey
Chris will there be a memorial ride in honor of Kristy & Matt? A very sad day as once again two members of the cycling community have fallen. Burt Mabel
I am a friend of Matt’s from work. He’s made a big impact on a lot of us here at the office. Not sure if it is true, but rumor has it Roaring Mouse is organizing or helping with the SF memorial service. Do you know any details about it? Hope all is as good as it can be for you and your team. Rich
Thoughts and prayers to the family, friends and teamates during this time of your great loss.
Matt, I find comfort in knowing that where you are now, you will always enjoy a tailwind
Matt's and Kristy's tragic death hit close to home. My ex, Matt, is friend's/neighbor's with Christian who is another strong cyclist knew them all, including the cyclist in critical condition. Cars coming against me while riding on a narrow, winding road are my biggest fear and this proves it to be a legitimate fear. A friend of mine also got bumped by a car on Sunday but was not hurt. Ride safe and I never want to see anyone I know in my ambulance! Dori
Matt will be missed by many people. I had the privilege of working with Matt - he had that smile that well you cannot put into words - what an inspiration he was. He would always give extra for everyone.
I have been in a state of shock all day after hearing the news. My prayers to his family and for his friends for strength during this time.
God Bless
To All with Grieving Hearts. I did not know Matt or Kristy but my heart and soul ache and mourns for their family and friends with this gut wrenching loss. and for the two of them because they were not allowed to finish their work here. I was on my way to Skylawn Cemetery off Hwy 92 yesterday when I heard the horrendous news report. I had to pull over and stop as yesterday, March 9th was the 9th month anniversary of my beloved 22 year old son's fatal (motorcycle crash-we will never know if one of the cars that hit him also swerved into his lane)) accident on Hwy 9, not too far from yesterday's tragic site. The only advise I can offer in response to something that has no explanation and feels so wrong and is so wrong is; to continue to honor Matt and Kristy's lives by remembering all the good they were doing to make this world a better place and to continue to promote all they worked for and believed in toward achieving that goal. With a heavy heart, and prayers for the 20 year old boy who is recovering at Stanford, Sincerely, Joan Johnson Mother of Chris Johnson
My deepest heart felt sorrow for your loss. I know you can't see the tears in my eyes but they are there. I am sure many tears are being shed by strangers over this tragic incident! Be strong. Liz Kurtz in Los Angeles
Just a quick message to say how sorry I am to hear about the accident this weekend. We at AIDS/LifeCycle were shocked at the news and send our condolences to Matt & Kristy’s families and friends. Susan Parish. Associate Director--AIDS/LifeCycle
Incidents like this are so difficult to comprehend. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Matt, Kristy and Christopher and their families.
I knew Matt since 2004. He was one of the kindest and most passionate people I have ever met. He loved his family, and often shared stories about how proud he was of his little sister while we were on rides together in the Marin Headlands. And he loved his bike.
He will be greatly missed by us all, but his spirt will continue to live strong...as always.
Jon Rath
I never met Matt, but know his death has touched you personally, and I cried as I read the story. My heart goes out to the whole team. Sincerely, Candy
I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm a cycle coach and I know what it's like to be part of a team and how close the members of a team can become. Car/cycle accidents is my biggest worry when it comes to the safety of my riders while we're out there on the road. I hope that this incident will open the eyes and minds of motorists and they start paying closer attention to their surroundings. My condolences to your entire team. I couldn't even begin to imagine the hurt that goes with losing a teammate like this. You're all be in my thoughts.
I was at the airport this morning on my way to LA and I saw the article in the SF Chronicle about the accident up in the hills above Cupertino. Just wanted you to know how sorry I am to hear about your friend who was involved in the accident and was killed. Really, I am not sure what to say other than I hope that you guys can find some sort of comfort in the fact that your friend/team mate was involved with something that he truly loved. Make sure to spend sometime with your family and find some comfort in that. Take care, Jeff Ballard
Please accept and pass on my condelences for all who have lost because of this tragedy. It just seems life is not fair sometimes. Matt
I've just read about the three riders on Sunday.
I'm so sorry, I didn't know your guy but when something like this happens it affects and unites all cyclists. Please extend my condolences to his family and friends. God bless, Steve
Wow! Just yesterday I battled the Cat5 Roaring Mouse Team on Papa Bear and to the finish line in the BBC TTT and then this morning the sad news of Matt Peterson's and Kristy Gough's deaths. Please accept my sincere condolences! Elmar Stefke, Touchstone
I didn’t know him. I am just a rider feeling sick over this tragedy who would like to help somehow. John Demko
Jeff just told me that some cyclists were hit yesterday out in your neck of the woods and that one of them may have been a meece. If this is the case please let those at RM know you have my and Titus’ deepest sympathy. Please let me know. Thanks. EJ.
I am really sorry to hear about Matt Peterson's death this past weekend. I didn't know him but I saw that he was a member of your shop's team. It's awful news and the thing all cyclists live in fear of when we're out on the road. Take care, Dylan
Please know that my prayers are with you and your team today. I just read about the horrible accident. Anne Marie Kelly
Are you aware of a memorial service(s) for Matt and Khristy? If so, please advise. My team is feeling horrible about this tragic loss. I would like to suggest teams riding to the memorial services to show support to their families. Sincerely, Mark Nichols Wells Fargo Racing
My heartfelt condolences for the terrible losses of Sunday. It's just too shocking. rj
Like everybody on MTBR, I read what happened. I am truely sorry for the losses of such talented lives. Sincerely, J-C
I am very sorry to hear about the loss of a team member/friend. That is about all I know what to say.
-Blake
As a member of the Team Fremont Race Team, I'd like to extend my deepest condolences to the members of your team and to the family of Matt Peterson. A terrible and tragic loss that is felt by myself and all our members of our Team. Sincerely, Oscar Nunez VP of Team Fremont(FFBC)
I read with horror what happened to Matt yesterday. Even though I am 800 miles from you guys, I will always be a Mouse and feel a very personal loss when the Mouse family is affected in this way. You all have my sympathy and heartfelt condolences. Jeff Bryan
We just wanted to take a moment to express our heartfelt condolences to the Roaring Mouse and Peterson families. We didn't know Matt and never had the chance to ride one of the "hammer fests" with him. From everything we have heard, Matt was a wonderful person and cyclist. He will be missed by us all and will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Kindest regards, Dale Ashlock & Deb Holcomb
I just read about Matt Peterson & Kristy Gough on CNN news. Tragic barely describes this. I really don't know what else to say except I'm so sorry. Thinking about you, Jennifer
I read about Matt this morning and can’t express how sorry I am to hear of this loss for you and the roaring mouse family. -John
I heard about your friend Matt yesterday. I was on my bike headed toward Mt Eden and was forced to turn around due to the road being closed. I knew there had to be a fatality and somewhere somebody's friends & family would be suffering today. What sickens me more is that there are two families suffering.
I heard about your friend Matt yesterday. I was on my bike headed toward Mt Eden and was forced to turn around due to the road being closed. I knew there had to be a fatality and somewhere somebody's friends & family would be suffering today. What sickens me more is that there are two families suffering.
Four years ago my 2 friends were struck by a drunk driver on a Sunday (Easter Sunday to be exact) at 11:30 in the morning. Alan was killed instantly and Jill was critically injured and now permantely paralyzed. I got the news that afternoon. I remember having to "spread" the news the following morning, just as you have to do now as Alan was our head coach for Mountain View Masters Swim Team.
My heart goes out to you and Matt's teammates.
Save every email you get. Make copies and put them in a scrapbook for his familiy and for you. His family will love hearing from people they may not know. It will comfort them beyond belief. Wen others ask what they can do to help, this is something they can help with.
Let people help you. Don't feel you have to do it all. You need to grieve as well.
I am so sorry you and everyone Matt knows has to go through this process as I know what it's like. If there is anything you need, please do not hesitate to let me know.
Laura Schuster
Mountain View Masters Swim Team
I Just read the news about the accident yesterday (still read SFgate). Sorry for your loss, a horrible thing. If there is a fund set up for funeral expenses, etc. let me know. Bryan
We don't know each other, but the Stevens Canyon catastrophe has affected me rather strongly for some reason, even though I don't know Matt (or Kristy Gough or the third injured cyclist) and I was moved to drop you a short e-mail of sympathy. As you said on the shop's website, "Words fail me."
All I can say is that this shock and pain is shared (at least a little bit) by cyclists all over -- including up here in Oregon where we have had several cyclists killed recently, despite "doing everything right" safety-wise.
Although it is of no help to Matt, I wish you and your team peace as you heal from this in the coming months and years. At this point, that's all I have to offer as a fellow cyclist and human being.
Indeed, words fail me.
-Michael Heggen
Salem, Oregon
Eric here, bicycle industry PR guy, based here in SF. I’m so sorry to hear about today’s tragedy regarding Matt. Cycling is my life and livelihood as I head up the SF-based PR agency for Shimano and Giant Bicycles. I also do some bicycle advocacy work here and there.
I’d like to stay in touch with you, or be added to any public emails you have regarding Matt’s unfortunate and horrible death. I’m not a news whore, or bored or anything, but rather concerned with what happens in my local cycling community. Also, should any charity, benefit, or something of that nature get put together for Matt, I could help you all get word out to bicycle industry media, and even local media if it could at all help. It’s what I do and I’d be happy to help.
Anyway, my condolences and warm thoughts to your team and his family.
Eric Doyne
dispatch | marketing communications
Just heard the terrible news about Matt and wanted to express condolences to your team and Matt's family. I just missed catching his wheel as he took off on the last lap at Merco Crit and I paid the price for trying to catch him. He was clearly the class of the field and in the process of moving on to the next category. Nobody likes to think about this aspect of Matt's death, but I'd be happy to answer any questions for his family regarding the future legal issues against the sheriffs office. Since I can't come close to supporting myself through cycling I work for a personal injury firm, Scranton Law Firm. I can be reached day or night on my cell 916-715-9960 or office 800-707-0707. My wife and I are praying for strength for the family members involved during this difficult time.
Karl Wurzbach - Davis Bike Club
Dear Roaring Mouse staff and friends of Matt Peterson,
I do not know you or Matt but I send my deepest condolences. This breaks my heart. You are not alone in your grief.
Sincerely,
Traci Kawakami
Read this story from far away in Michigan...
What a stupid way for nice people to die...No reasons for it...
I am very sorry for you loss of your friends...
Dean in Michigan...
please consider
the ride of silence.
On March 3rd, two days after the Merco Crit, our entire team received an email from one of our members titled "Inspiration" - the subject was Matt Peterson and the topic was his epic victory at Merco. Memories like that will ensure that his legacy will live on forever with most of us who can only dream of a win like that. On behalf of our team, I offer our deepest condolences to the members of Roaring Mouse and to Matt's friends and family.
Channing Chen
Fusion Sport
The University of California-Davis and Davis Bike Club Race Teams offer our sincere condolences to Matt's family, friends, and teammates. He was a fierce yet friendly competitor and always represented himself and his sport with class and distinction. The accident which claimed his life was horrific and tragic, but perhaps we can all take a small amount of solace in the thought that he spent the last day of his life doing something he clearly loved very much
Dear God:
Now that you have the final two members of your cycling team, can you stop taking more? We love them and need them here with us now. We are sad and shed tears and question that reasoning. Be done for now, we'll all understand.
To our fallen ones:
You'll be remembered with every turn of our wheels.
There is no word to express this terrible sorrow. Our hearts go out to Matt and Kristy’s families and friends.
Angele and Joe Oliveri
I'm so sorry for Matt and Kristy's tragic loss. I have to say, Matt's recent win was huge. Really huge. To have such a goal, and then to pull it all together on the day for the first time ever is really a rare and special thing.
I know the last couple weeks of Matt's short life were among his best ever, and if he had been fortunate to live to be an old man, he still would be able to vivdly recall each turn of that race and the feeling of impossibility as he won.
Godspeed, Matt.
We are all member of the same community. We ride because we have a passion to be on our bikes; a passion to be in the outdoors. No one should take that love from us, or take us from those who love us and from life itself. I felt that I had lost a friend despite not knowing Matt. Upon hearing the news, I cried because it's such a tragic loss.
My thoughts are with Matt's family and friends and all of us cyclists who have to get back on our bikes and think about what happened.
But, most importantly, we need to keep riding.
Vera Divenyi
Denver, CO
I unfortunately didn't know Matt. I'm just a passionate weekend rider having recently moved from Ireland. But when something like this happens, when such talent is needlessly wasted it unites us all. My thoughts and prayers go to all the families, friends and team mates.
God bless,
Steve
I never had the benefit of meeting Matt, but I did know Kristy. I find it hard to believe that they are gone. Both were wonderful people who will be greatly missed.
Jeromy
My condolences to the families of Matt & Christy, and the Roaring Mouse cycling club. You are all in my prayers.
Dana
yesterday was my first long ride since breaking my neck on last december. It was sheer bad luck then, but not so bad i couldn't ride again.
It was a beautiful day, and i appreciated every moment of being able to ride, but also so very, very aware of how close and fast every stinky car is to me, and how only by pure chance i still am riding another few seconds. It seems only by pure chance that we 'share' the road, if only for that second.
now i'll remember another tragic bay area cycling day. RIP heroes...
gleeco
As most of us did I got up on a Sunday morning and set out for a ride with friends...who knew that day 2 of our own would not get home to but their bikes in the garages and enjoy the rest of that beautiful day in Northern California. May you be at rest Kristy and Matt....and riding your bikes through the gates of heaven!
My condolences to the families and friends of Matt & Christy. They will be in my thoughts. Be well! ~Blair
I only rode with Matt a few times, but each time was a blast. He was always smiling and happy and going strong. I had no idea of the dedication that he had to winning Merco - I was so happy for him when I read the race reports. Hearing people reminisce has shown me that he was a great person , loved by many. He is truly inspiring and I will miss him. My condolences to his friends and family.
liam
I didn't know Matt very well, but like many others here, I can say that his positive attitude and strong character were very evident even in our brief interactions.
My condolences to Matt's family, friends, and teammates who are grieving a tragic loss.
As a teammate, friend and fellow cyclist I will dearly miss Matt as one of the most honest, respectful, happy and solid guys I knew. He was such a well-rounded individual, always had a great story to tell and always willing to be there for you.
After driving into Saulsilito this afternoon, I couldn't help but remember all the times we rode that road together. I could just hear his laugh.
I was so proud of Matt for his amazing dedication to training this year, losing a ton of weight, putting in countless hours and still extremely excited to help the new guys on Roaring Mouse start their cycling careers. He was an excellent mentor.
I'll always remember Matt's dedication to his family. He once told me him and his siblings got together to help his parents out with a health problem. They held a competition amongst the family to lose the most weight. I loved following this story as it happened, not only because it was exciting to watch the progress, but it was amazing to me how passionate and caring Matt and his family were. I hope the Peterson's continue their new health in honor of Matt.
I am truly sorry to see such an awesome guy go and in such a horrible way, but I am glad that he got to show us all how well he could perform as an athlete. I was so happy to hear of his win at Merco. He died really doing what he loved.
Matt, thank you for all the guidance, support, laughs and love. You are missed.
Darren
I did not know Matt, but raced with him this weekend at Menlo, and I cannot believe such a strong one of our brethren is gone. Reading his story and the tributes here has inspired me, and no doubt countless others.
My heart goes out to the families and friends of Matt, Kristy, and Christopher.
Peace to all involved in and affected by this awful tragedy,
David
Those of us from the Five Rings Cycling Center who spent countless roller hours side by side with Matt watching the same Tour DVD's over and over again will miss him terribly. Matt always showed up at the gym smiling and always seemed to leave smiling. It was clear he loved to be in the saddle.
The Sunday training ride won't ever be the same but we all need to keep charging...because that's what Matt and Kristy would want us to do.
On behalf of the other cycling gym rats, Peninsula Velo, and Cyclepath San Mateo I send deepest condolences to Matt's family, friends, and teammates.
Mike Charney
Peninsula Velo
I worked with Matt for the past few years and consider myself extremely fortunate. He was always so energetic and kind and fun. Someone you always wanted to be around. I remember during the Dia de Los Muertos parade, Matt had just intended to go out for a burrito and when he realized there was this massive parade going on - he totally joined in and befriended people. I happened to bump into him at the parade and it seemed like he was already best friends with this person he had only met 5 minutes ago. Matt was like that. I will miss him and his enthusiasm, friendship, passion and understanding. Matt and Kristy. You will be missed. My prayers go out to your family and friends.
To Matt's and Kristy's families and friends: our thoughts have been with you every second today; some of us on Left Coast Racing Team had the privilege of being in races with Kristy; we will never forget her talent and spirit. May you find peace.
Daniele
Left Coast Racing Team
I just wanted to let the friends and families of Matt and Kristy know that they are in my thoughts. I am so sorry for your loss.
To all of Matt's family and friends, I am so sorry. I didn't know Matt as well as all of you, but I got to know Matt a little bit ago at the Merco races. He truly deserved that win at the crit, and I know he was proud of that winner's jersey he wore the next day at the road race, where we conversed a bit. He definitely was a strong rider and looked to be having a great year. I am as saddened by this as all of you are. On behalf of my team, Team MadCat Bicycles, and myself, please accept our sincere condolences. I am truly saddened as Matt seemed to be a really nice guy. If there is anything I can help with at this time, please contact me.
Matt came to us at Five Rings Cycling Center in the fall of last year. In this short period of time he became a good, close friend of ours. His will to train with full commitment, in order to realize his dream of winning Merco Credit Union, allowed us to set him as an example to other athletes. He won the race with full confidence and had plenty of strength to win more races. His life as a competitive cyclist was only beginning when unfortunate fate struck and prevented him from triumphing in this sport. We realize that nothing can be changed, but it is within our power to preserve a bright memory about Matt within our hearts.
-Dmitriy and Vladimir
Matt was one of those people at work that made it fun to actually be there every day. His energy and competitiveness drove you to be better. Matt was full of talent, humor, integrity, and passion. You will be deeply missed, and never forgotten.
To Matt's family, my deepest condolences. I will continue praying for you.
"May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD, even as we put our hope in you." -Psalm 33:22
Rich A
Matt was one of a handful of Mouse team members that I got to know wrenching for Roaring Mouse Cycles. I remember going over his Vortex after knocked out several of his teeth, he couldn't wait to get back on road riding. He was always excited to meet his next challenge and we will miss helping prepare for that.
My condolences to Matt's family, friend's, and team mates.
You will be missed Matt.
After reading the news and these deeply moving comments of the pain and love of so many, I sit here just weeping. These terrible tragedies take the best and brightest lights from us. Matt sounds like he was such a light.
I did not know Matt or Christie, and the first I heard of this was when a friend of mine thought it might have been me! I ride through there nearly every day. Until now, I've never really taken my friends' concerns over my own training seriously...but now I will. This has really hit hard. It could have been any of us. But, the worst is, it's the ones left behind who are in unspeakable agony and have to try to make sense of things.
God bless Matt and Christie and the other injured cyclist, your families, and friends. All are in my prayers for comfort for the God awful pain and suffering this has left in its wake, closure, understanding, peace. I KNOW Matt and Christie are in a good place.
I was devastated to hear of the tragic loss of Matt and Kristy. I did not know Matt personally, but I have raced with Roaring Mouse team members at many events this year. They are a very special team, made strong by extraordinary individuals like Matt. His dedication to victory at Merco, which he follwed up with a stellar win is inspiring. I hope that his memory lives on in all of us as we strive to be the best we can be, in all aspects of life, each day.
I raced with Kristy several times, and we warmed up together at the Early Bird Road Race and the Merco Road Race. She was as egoless as they come, despite her incridible talent and accomplishments--truly a class act.
They will both be missed.
If there is anything that we at Los Gatos Bicycle Racing Club can do, please let us know (memorial events, memorial funds, etc--please keep us posted).
My best wishes to all cyclists and drivers out there to stay safe.
-Lucia Mokres
Los Gatos Bicycle Racing Club
There are no words to express the sadness of a situation this horrible. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the family, friends, and teammates at this time.
Jennifer Van Muckey
Prayers and thoughts from a cyclist over in England who sadly has experienced a similar loss.
Bless you all.
I rode with Matt and the Roaring Mouse Team during the 2005 and 2006 seasons. Matt was a serious cyclist and competitor, but what I remember most about Matt was he was always smailing, always laughing, always enjoying himself. Matt had a huge amount of energy for life the affected everyone around him.
Thoughts and hope for Peace to everyone affected by this tradgedy.
Kurt Martinson
I didn't know Matt well, but remembering hanging with him and working on his bike occasionally while working about the Mouse from 2004-06. I remember he was always so full of enthusiasm for cycling and racing and the shop, but more importantly for all the people around him. I was shocked and saddened to read about his death this morning.
My sincere condolences to all in the Peterson and Gough families, and all the others whose lives they touched.
Jamie
Thanks for making this available to so many of us. A link was provided to some of us that graduated HS with Matt. It is really wonderful to know how much he was loved and respected everywhere he went.
Condolences to Matt's family & friends from a fellow cyclist in New Jersey. Very tragic news.
You now have wings of an angel.
My condolences to Matt's family and friends.
Dan
SRAM Tech Support
my most heartfelt condolences to matt's friends and family--my best friend was killed in a similar accident a month ago and although the wound never heals, it's comforting to see the outpouring of concern and support in the cycling community.
tearfully,
matt ragan
columbus bike racing team
columbus, ga
To Matt and all of his family and friends,
My husband and I send our deepest condolences to you as you remember Matt at this very difficult time.
We are so very sorry for your loss.
The Braums-
Novato, CA
Another senseless tragedy on the road. My condolences to all who knew and raced with Matt.
My deepest condolences to the families, friends and teammates of Matt and Kristy.
May you forever ride strong Kristy and Matt.
Lisa Stefke
Left Coast Racing Team
I only saw Matt once in my life. I was staging for my race in the Merco Downtown Criterium. I was racing with the Masters 35+ 1,2,3's and we got to see the last couple of laps in the Elite 4 race. I am a cycling fan and have been since I started racing twenty three years ago, I am forty three now, so I watched with my usual interest as the group rolled around. I thought to myself well, it's a 4's race so it will be a bunch sprint and I hope no one crashes on the last turn riding carelessly. Next thing I see this lone rider coming around the corner and he is riding so effortlessly that I figured he was off the back and nearly lapped... Well, then he gets a little closer, the crowd is cheering, and I see he is kind of making faces like yeah this is work and almost like he doesn't like that he is getting so much attention from the crowd. Again, Matt makes me think he was about to be lapped, and yet at the same time still riding effortlessly so maybe he is trying to make it not look as easy as it is for him. I just keep saying to myself is he off the front or off the back? I remember asking my teammate Clark, is he winning or losing? Finally as he crosses the line he raises his arms with unabashed joy! So Matt clues me in, WINNER! I will never forget the looks he made as if he were hurting but really just being humble in his solo victory, his final victory, winning like a true champion off the front solo.
To Matt's Family & Teammates,
Matt was a champion is every sense of the word. We were lucky to have known him and see him blossom as a cyclist and a triathlete. Our deepest sympathies to his Roaring Mouse teammates, sister Melody and family. Matt, you will always be a champion and Ironman in our hearts and minds.
Rachel Sears
President, Hypercat Racing
I work with Matt and I'm sad to see him go. R.I.P.
As so many have said, I have been really affected by this whole tragedy. I didn't know Matt or Kristy, but I am affected as though I did. Matt sounds like he was such a great person..and as a master's cat. 4, I toed the line with Kristy a couple of times, and saw her for a few sec. as she raced away! I have such admiration for both, not only as incredible cyclists, but more importantly, the kind of people they seemed to be. And, I've met several of the Roaring Mouse women, and what a GREAT group--being a newer racer, this has been such a positive experience for me.
So my heart and prayers go out to all of the team, friends and family of both cyclists.
In peace-
Joan
Left Coast Racing Team
I coached Matt as he was getting into the sport and explored the 24 hour scene, triathlons, and road racing. His love for the bike and desire to be stronger was never in question. I know his passion for the sport and fitness has infected many and may his legacy be lived out as others are inspired by his life.
On behalf of myself and Carmichael Training Systems, condolences and best wishes,
Kate Gracheck
From this day forward, on the back pockets of every MERCO Credit Union Cycling Classic, presented by McLane Pacific Champion's Jersey will appear the names of Matt Peterson and Kristy Gough.
Our entire race organization is honored to have been a goal of Matt and Kristy's. Often times we feel that our race doesn't really mean much and question why we do what we do. To read the various articles on the tragedy, sheds new light on our purpose. To know the impact that MERCO CU CC had on these two individuals gives us reason to continue. We are lucky to have been able to provide a platform for them to display their skills and enjoy their sport.
Historically the rock trophy has been symbolic of the Merced River, the river from which the rock trophies are removed from each year prior to engraving. To reach the Merced River is a goal for many beginning cyclists in Merced. It has always been fitting that a rock trophy from this river would be a goal for racing cyclists. With this tagedy, the rock trophy takes on a new meaning to those of us involved in the race.
We are honored to have been a goal for both Matt and Kristy. We are further honored to have had an impact on their lives and want those close to Matt and Kristy to know that they have had an impact on our lives as well.
We wish all of the family, friends and riders who are suffering this loss to know that you are in our hearts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Doug Fluetsch
Founder, MERCO Credit Union Cycling Classic, presented by McLane Pacific.
To Matt's family and friends - I am so deeply sorry for your loss. I work in a bike shop and about every day we here about a collision a cyclist has with an automobile. In virtually every story, the cyclists are doing everything right. Most people don't realize how often cyclists lives are put in danger. Perhaps Matt's iconic stature will shine some light on this issue and help to save others. Again - I am so very sorry.
Brian Bruckner, Big Swingin' Cycles
heartfelt condolences to matt's family, friends and teammates. sounds like you all have wonderful memories of him, keep them alive.
nancy
I bike in GGP on Tuesdays and I'm sure I've jumped on Matt's wheel at some point and then got dusted. It's so sad to learn about his breakthrough bike race win and then this. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to Matt and Kristy's families. I hope there can be celebration of the good things that both of them brought to family, friends, and the bike community.
So long my friend. It has been a pleasure being your teammate. You've always inspired me with your mountain biking, 24-Hour Solo races, and your beautiful Merco win - by a "Peterson Mile". You'll be missed by all.
I can't seem to stop weeping.
This is a tragic event and we are all very upset about this news.
I am a member of Team NorCal Bike Sport based in Santa Rosa and I would like to extend our deepest regrets and pass on all our love at this time to friends and family.
I did not know either Matt or Kirsty but have read about there success in the news and know they will be sorely missed.
Furthermore, and a message to all riders please be careful out there, I witness an incident of poor or dangerous driving every time I go riding. It seems safety of riders comes in second place to the eyes of many motorists.
my deepest and most sincere condolences to matt and kristi's families, friends and all who knew them.
-a local triathlete/cyclist
I didn’t know Matt as well as those closest to him, but I knew him well enough to know that he treated people he just met as good friends and that his generosity and spirit was infectious. I consider myself fortunate to have known him and he will only be remembered in the highest regard.
To Matt’s family, friends, and team mates: I hope that your fondest memories of Matt will provide some measure of comfort during this trying time.
I am so very sorry to hear of this loss.
Unfortunately I never met Matt in person. However, I did see his win at Merco a couple weeks ago. I was impressed with his strength, determination, and courage in making that race winning move. I was definitely cheering him on.
It was very inspiring.
I will keep that memory with me and use it as a source of strength.
Brian Peterson
Webcor/Alto Velo
Can someone tell me if this is the same Matt Peterson of SF, CA who rode in the October 2005 Death Valley Double Century? I'm the organizer of that event. I have a Matt Peterson in our database from that event, living at 2378 43rd Ave in SF. Same rider?
Either way, we extend our condolences to Matt's family, friends, and teammates.
- Chris Kostman
Unfortunatly I didn't have the chance to meet Matt personally but I know that he will be greatly missed by everyone. I will keep him and his family in my thoughts and prayers.
Kim Wik
Code3Racing
I'm sorry for the loss of your friends. I never met either of them but they, their families and all you are in my prayers.
Initially bikes are what we all have in common but good people like Matt are why we stick together.
Ride In Peace,
Mike G
Colorado
i am so sorry to read about this terrible tragedy -- as a san francisco cyclist, i am deeply saddened. my heartfelt condolences to matt's family, friends, and teammates.
My heart and thought go to Matt's family and the cycling community.
My heart goes out to the friends and family of Kristy and Matt. I always enjoy seeing Roaring Mouse members out on the road and I'm very sorry for the team's loss and the community's loss. While I didn't know Kristy and Matt, I recall hearing about their recent wins and feeling proud of them and their potential.
Louisa
Tragedies such as this should never occur. And yet… they do. My heart goes out to the families, friends, and all those who knew Matt.
As a community, we need to come together in the hope of preventing such atrocities.
Corinne Winter
Silicon Valley Bicycle Coalition
I knew Matt as a part of a crew of friends who didn’t cycle, but did everything else the Bay Area had to offer, B2B, skiing in Tahoe, intramural football, birthday dinners and house parties. Looking back on those memories, Matt was always up for anything that involved being active, was part of a team, or involved the natural camaraderie that friends have just hanging out. What I remember most is his goofy smile and easygoing manner during the down time.
Thanks Matt for giving life everything you had, you will not be forgotten.
~Carrie
I did not know Matt or Kristi personally but cannot get them off my mind since the accident. I send my deepest condolences to their friends and families. My heart aches as I shared the same tremendous passion as them in racing. I hold back the tears as I wished they could have reached their goals not only in racing, but in life. You're in our prayers.
Lynn Armstrong
triathlete
Rest in peace, Matt. My heartfelt condolences to family and friends.
Matt and I worked together at The 'Mart. He was always smiling, never in a bad mood and great to work with/hang out with. I too am a cyclist (more retired than active now) and we would talk about cycling, places to ride, gear etc.
You left us far too soon Matt. My heartfelt condolences to your family and loved ones. We'll all miss you very much.
~t
My deepest regards to Matt's family. I knew Matt while living in SF a couple of years ago. I don't think I've ever met someone who had so many nice things to say and smiled so much. I know he enjoyed his friends and most of all the outdoors. I wanted to echo what someone already said.. the world would be a better place if we had more people like him.
Margee
Matt-
Being new to road racing you were a true inspiration to me. You elevated us as a team to a whole new level and helped us start this season with a big splash.
Off the bike your generosity and fairness helped us grow as a family.
I can't believe that just last weekend I was teasing you about your tongue always hanging out when you go over the finish line. You told me you simply couldn't help it.
I will never forget that cold and rainy early morning when we came back from a training ride and I grabbed your wheel going over the Golden Gate. I think we must have hit 30mph at some point.
Or watching you sound asleep, with your walkman blasting music in your ears, one night during the Snelling weekend at Lollini's.
Man, I'm so sad we never got to have that Sushi dinner we talked about and meet Danielle.
Your death leaves a gaping whole in my heart and inspires me to be generous with my affection for the people I love.
I feel blessed to have known you.
You will be missed.
Daniela
ZteaM Cycling have already expressed their concern and sincere condolences about this tragic event among its over 200 members and we feel at least some of the pain that those closest to Matt and Christy are feeing right now.
Wayne McIntosh
ZteaM
Marin County
Worked with Matt when he was a buyer for Wal-Mart in Bentonville, AR. To his family and friends ~ please accepted my sincere condolences. I did not know Kristy, however my thoughts and prayers go out to her family.
What an unfortunate and tragic event, however, will never forget Matt's dynamic personality.
Peace of the Lord be with all friends and family.
When I heard the news, I was shocked and saddened. My thoughts and prayers are with both cyclists' families that lost their loved ones too soon... As a fellow cyclist, I know that every time I am going for a ride outdoors, I will be facing cars, traffic, tourists who can't drive, bad roads, and other unknown conditions, and I just have to put my faith in God... My condolences to all of Matt and Kristy's friends and loved ones during this difficult time.
To the family, friends, and teammates of Matt,
Although we did not know Matt personally, the news of your loss is a great sadness to us. To have had such zest for life that Matt had is certainly an inspiration to us all. Please know that you will be in our constant thoughts.
Tom and Maria Monica
I worked with Matt. When I brought my two little boys to the office one day last year Matt immediately made them "toy testers" for an hour or so. He took an interest in them and listened to what they said. They had a blast and still talk about the "toy guy" at Walmart.
Matt was one of the good guys and will be sorely missed. Condolences to family and loved ones.
david
My sincere condolences to Matt's and Kristy's family, friends, and teammates.
Denin (Denny) Sahovic
Los Gatos Bicycle Racing Club
To both Matt's and Kristi's family, friends and teammates, I send my deepest condolences and prayers during this difficult time. My heart goes out to you all.
Leishia Woolwine
I still can't believe it. I've been a co-worker of Matt's for years & couldn't believe how unfair it was that someone as genuinely kind as Matt would have the accident he had a little while back, let alone this.
He was always upbeat & charming & made the most boring meetings fun when he spoke. We needed more Matts, not less.
I can only imagine the wonderful family he came from, a family that produced such a lovely man. My heart goes out to you. I lost my brother to a drunk driver a couple years back & I want you to know I feel for you deeply.
That goes for the members of his riding team, too. I know how much he loved cycling.
-Jenn H.
Our deepest empathy and compassion to Matt's family, friends, and teammates. Words can never express the grief of loss or the pain of reality. Only time can heal; the memories of Matt's life will not fade.
-The women of TeamTibco
I didn't know Matt or Kristy personally, but like everybody else on this list I am shocked, saddened, and horrified by the loss of these two beautiful, young, talented people whose whole lives were ahead of them. They were giving people in a very non-giving world-- and they still had so much more to give, which we are all now tragically deprived of.
If I'm so touched by what happened, and I didn't even know them, I can't imagine what their families must be going through. I just have a glimmer of who they were, and how valuable their lives were, but their families and close friends were surely so much more more aware of and appreciative of these things than I am.
I want their families to know that just because people aren't writing in, doesn't mean they're not affected by it. A lot of people probably feel that if they didn't know them personally it's presumptuous, or futile, to comment. But I know that the bicycling community here in San Francisco, of which I am a part, is feeling this loss very deeply. Matt and Kristy weren't really my brother and sister, but in another sense, they were. I hope you can take comfort in the fact that there are a lot of people who you don't even know who are grieving this loss along with you, and wishing you all the strength and help you need to get through it.
God bless you, and God bless Matt and Kristy's souls.
--Katherine Roberts
I just want to express my deepest condolences to all friends and family of Matt. I raced the Cat 4 Merco RR two weekends ago and was riding next to him for a bit and said "congrats" because I noticed he was wearing the leaders jersey. He will sorely be missed by me and fellow Cat 4 racers. He clearly had some awesome potential and was sure to win some more races this year...
Best,
Kevin
I will miss you buddy. Glad you were part of my life. -s
Cycling a winding road
Matt and I played football in San Francisco, in an adult recreation league. This would now have been years ago. We eventually lost touch, though I still think about him and how he's doing, often fondly. That's how powerful his personality is. Even after a short meeting, Matt is very memorable.
There isn't much anyone can do when a loved one is gone. Seeing the number of posts that are on thsi website, Matt's loss from this world reminds me that we should make an attempt to tell those who are in our lives how important they are to us on a regular basis.
And in his memory, all the best to his friends, and family, especially those who are in the southwest. It's probably especially hard to mourn for Matt being in another state. But have peace in the thought that Matt treated others well, lived honestly, and did his best.
Matt has always been in my thoughts and will continue to be, in fond and fun football memories.
My heart goes out to Matt and Kristy's family and friends. I didn't know them but I'm a fellow cyclist and I can't stop thinking what a senseless and tragic loss this is.
"in order to have felt great sadness, you must have first felt great happiness"
This has been such a shock for us here at Center For Sports Medicine and will have chills all week...So so sorry and all of my condolences to Matts' family, friends, colleagues, and cycling buddies. I'm sure he and Kristy will have an incredible tailwind sending them to blissful eternity.Matt's legacy of always striving to go for your best will be with me forever. Thank you for being you Matt.
Laura Dunn
Center For Sportsmedicine
San Francisco, CA
You all, as a team, customers, friends, and collegues , have my deepest condolences in light of this incident.
Matt, you never hesitated to "test" me, my co-workers, or my patience (thanks for the fun fights/debates) as well as "lighten" my day.
I consider myself lucky to have known you.
Thanks for that, and so much more.
"May Your Wheels Carry You to Heaven" as I know they have.
Shane (Obi)
Words fail me.
Extending deep and heartfelt sympathy to to Matt's family, friends and team mates.
- Lyne Lamoureux
Matt is one of the nicest people I have ever met. I met him through another friend when I moved out to San Francisco a couple years ago. We hung out a bunch of times. It was always great to have him around and I will miss him.
My sincere condolences to Matt's family.
Carl
I still can't believe that I won't be seeing the pleasant smiling face of Matt anymore at work. I have worked on & off with him over the last 7 years at walmart was utterly shocked at hearing the news. He was very committed to his work and strangely I was not aware of his other passion (cycling).
Just last week I exchanged a few work related emails with him & this news has stunned me and others at work.
Our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family at this great untimely loss.
Samrat
I ride for Third Pillar and train with the Russians and rode with Matt a few times, and all I can say is he was a good guy, tough, fair, fun and our time together was too short. I was one of the people who knew everyone on that ride, who was at the hospital, met with the coroner, and stood by while we tracked down contacts to find his family.
I have cried many tears for Matt and our fallen teammate Kristy Gough. It is so hard when anyone is so abruptly and brutally taken from us, and we who are left behind must carry with us the burden of sadness and the pain of the memory.
And we do remember the lightness of being as well...that was Matt...
I had the pleasure of training with Matt at the cycling gym and riding with him on some training rides. I also had the privilege to have been with Matt on his last ride, and was the fortunate fourth rider who was spared. This message is my way to reach out to all of Matt’s friends and family to let you know how he was on that ride and what his last words were to me. We were selected to be the first team of four and were riding in a pace-line formation towards the Stevens Canyon Reservoir. Matt was ‘putting the hurt on!’ from the get-go, it was an excellent ride and we were moving at a solid pace. I was praying for every traffic light to turn red so that my heart rate could come down from the high 170’s!! At around mile 6 or 7 Matt looked at me and said, “we’ll go into a small echelon”, and, “if you’re not feeling it, just sit in”. At one point they started to open a gap and when he noticed, he slowed the pace and waited until I was on his wheel; he last words to me were, “come on Daniel, let’s go”. I latched on to his wheels again for a while; they opened another gap very quickly. The gap opened wider, and I watched all three of them ride in this perfect tight pace-line before they disappeared around a right bend. I took that same bend between 15 to 20 seconds later… If it is of any consolation to all of Matt’s friends and family, I don’t think that he suffered – the accident happened very quickly. I hope you can take comfort in knowing that his last ride was a beautiful one. It was a perfect clear day, the sun was shining and Matt was riding like a true champion and full of confidence. I feel honored to have been with him during that ride, he was having a great time.
-Daniel
I will miss you Matt. You had passion in your convictions and beliefs. I enjoyed disagreeing with you and felt righteous conviction when we were on the same page. You were always quick with a smart ass response but never hurtful and ready to help someone or ensure that they felt included. Although I am twice your age, which you were always quick to point out, you carried yourself as a gentleman and were wiser than your years but still managed to be a big goofy kid. Guess that's why I enjoyed you so much. Tail winds my friend...
Mr and Mrs Peterson, my son and daughter are close to Matt's age. Same kind of kids as Matt, goofy, happy, smiling, warm, caring, driven, selfless and loving. My heart goes out to you and your family. I can not imagine nor do I ever want to endure the nightmare you are living. It doesn't seem right to outlive our children. Be very proud of the wonderful man your son became. He was loved and cherished by all of us. We will carry his memory in our hearts and in our lives.
My sympathy and love to your family.
I did not know Matt or Christy, but I am so sorry for your loss.
I'm sure your family is reeling right now, as well as the Gough family.
As the story is unfolding about the Sheriff's driving record, I am getting angrier and angrier.
I am praying that the deputy is not going to get special treatment.
I know nothing can bring Matt or Christy back, but justice needs to be done here.
May they rest in peace,
Rachel
Matt...I have only ridden once with you at the track, and once on my first road ride. I have only hung out with you two other times, but I feel connected to you in some way. Oh, I forgot about a couple of Tuesday mornings, polo grounds rides. Either way, you have an immense presence. You made training with the Russians sound so painfull and romanic at the same time. I love you and your spirit, you motivated me.
Forever touched,
Greggory Lawson
My heart goes out to Matt's family, friends, and teammates. I didn't know Matt but he has been constantly in my thoughts since I heard the horrible news.
I was a spectator at the Merco race. My friend was racing in the Cat 3 race so I had the pleasure of seeing Matt's win.
I'm struck by the memory of the last lap of the Cat 4 race and watching Matt take off from the back side of the course. I overheard one of your teammates say "Matt's going for it!" Many teammates were jumping up and down and pacing back and forth and so excited for him. I found myself also getting nervous for him and anticipating who was going to be coming out of that final turn. It was thrilling to watch and so great to see his teammates take such delight in his win. It's such a tragic loss of someone that is clearly so talented and admired.
Karen
Los Gatos Bicycle Racing Club
Matt...I have only ridden once with you at the track, and once on my first road ride. I have only hung out with you two other times, but I feel connected to you in some way. Oh, I forgot about a couple of Tuesday mornings, polo grounds rides. Either way, you have an immense presence. I thought the answer was training with the Russians, you made it so painfully Romanic. I love you and your spirit, you motivated me.
Forever touched,
Greggory Lawson
I had the pleasure of working with matt closely at work at walmart.com for a year. it was a little crew of us working together. it became very apparent that matt was the most genuinely sweet guys you will ever come across.
i could list many memories but the one thing i never want to forget about him was his laugh. it was absolutely contagious and i smiled whenver i heard it. he will be greatly missed.
I worked with Matt. Everyone has captured his infectious enthusiasm, energy and passion so well. I will also remember him for his kindness. Above all probably for this.
My condolences to his family. You raised a wonderful person.
I'm so profoundly sad and sorry for Matt's family, friends and teammates, and for the loss of such an up and coming cyclist. Matt was certain to win many more races this year.
While I did not know Matt personally, this tragedy has profoundly affected so many. He was obviously a great, great person, and made the world a better place. I believe his memory will live on, carrying on his good will.
mary,
i'm so sad to hear about matt. please tell your parents and sister that i am thinking about them. i can't even begin to imagine what it feels like for you but want you to know when you get back into town i'm here...
love & peace
audrey
ahcall@cox.net
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