Michael

Michael was a friend, a riding partner and a running partner, (both literal and spiritual). I always admired his selfless dedication to people, his caring attitude and his easy going demeanor. I'll miss him greatly.

Coach Extraordinaire

On kickoff day of the Spring 08 triathlon training I was a newbie to cycling. After not being on a bike in 20 years, I was pretty nervous about the bike part of the training. Thanks to Michael's great coaching and encouragement my confidence and skill increased and I was able to conquer the Danskin course. I am so thankful that I had the privilege to meet such a wonderful person. He will greatly missed.

The Real Deal

Wow, I still am having trouble processing the gravity of this loss. Michael was my cycling coach for Iron Chicks this spring and I had no idea at the first training session how lucky I was to be meeting him. You see, Michael was the real deal. There was no over inflated ego or attitude of superiority with this man, he was so willing to help us "first timers" figure out how to get on a bike and get from point A to B while actually enjoying it! He had so much patience when we asked questions and really enjoyed teaching us. You knew that his passion was cycling and he wanted everyone to feel that excitement and love for the sport like he did! Michael made cycling, which was very overwhelming for me at the beginning, seem doable and fun. He kept telling us "you'll thank me for this at Danskin" as he made us do even more hill repeats. Ugh! But sure enough, those dang hill practices really made a difference! My fear of cycling subsided and I was bitten by the cycling "bug". Thanks to Michael, I finished the Danskin cycle course and have since purchased a new road bike. I will always remember the training and tips he gave us as I continue cycling, but there will definitely be a void left by his absence. Thanks Michael for everything you did and for the amazing person you were, I will truly miss you. Whenever I pack a few Gummy Bears for my bike ride I'll think of you!

live strong

With sadness, alicia post told me of michael's tragic passing. I knew him only as a fellow coach for the Livestrong program. He was always a patient companion on those really long and hot training rides, always smiling. I miss you all too...

Too few mornings

I am simply devastated by this news. Michael was the first athlete to sign up for the first marathon group I coached. He introduced himself to me at the Rogue open house and any fears I had about being a newbie coach were instantly put to rest. The eager enthusiasm, easy smile, and endless sense of humor brightened every 5:30am workout that fall. His passing leaves a gaping hole in the heart of the Geezer's Wheezers. It has been 3 days now since I heard the news and I can finally say that I am thankful that I had the chance to become a friend of Michael Argall. I will miss him.

Never stop smiling

I don't think I ever saw Michael without a smile on his face. I never heard him say no to anyone who needed his help, and never did a week go by that he wasn't sending emails about where he was riding so you could join him. Michael was the most joyous person I know, his motivation and dedication was an inspiration to us all. He was my coach and a friend. Ride on, Michael. We will all miss you.

Generous spirit

I feel that I'm repeating what so many others are saying, but the fact that so many of us are talking about how generous and giving Michael was is such a testament to what a great person he was. He always went out of his way to include people (even those of us who might have been a little slower), and share and teach his love of cycling. About a year ago, he just started sending emails to a small group of people, letting us know when & where he was riding each week. These were not "coached" rides - just rides he was planning for himself - but he was so gracious to extend the invitation to others and get people out there, riding. And even though he was supposedly not a coach during those rides, he always was. He would lend a hand, offer advice and generally provide support. He was so friendly, so helpful and had a fun (and funny) way about him. Every time I saw him, he made me laugh. He touched so many people and will be missed greatly.

Rogue rocks for MA

I am a very close friend of Michael's, but through Gateway Church rather then Rogue. I also trained a couple times with he and Cecelia and was always wanting to get that road bike (I have a mountain bike) to ride more with him. I got that bike on Saturday, ironically. But, I wanted to say that I am blown away by the community outreach and communication going on from this Rogue group. And am so looking forward to the ride on the 20th and meeting all of you. I know Michael's heart was always to comfort and share Christ's love at a personal level with all he touched. Through your posts, it sounds like he was a great success. We are all so blessed to know him.

Always put a smile on my face

I have known Argall during my career with the Sheriff's Office. He never had a problem and even when I did, he would still be able to put a smile on my face before he left. I have not grasped his loss yet. I just saw him a few days ago and we joked about his job as the Fire and Safety Officer. He wanted us to do things that we didn't want to do, or we felt we didn't have time for. We laughted about it. We work hard, but we play hard to. I am going to miss him, and it is a great loss to his family here at the Sheriff's Office. All my thoughts are with his family and Cecilia.

Guardian Angel

I met Michael because he extended an invitation on the forum to do a preview ride of the AT&T course back in January. We rode together fairly regularly over the past 3-4 months and he became one of my dearest friends. Michael had a JOYful spirit and he was truly a selfless soul. I'm so thankful that he was my friend. I won't be able to ride without thinking of him but I know I'll have a guardian angel at my side. "Ride On...", Michael.

Caring for others

I also knew Michael as my cycling coach with IronChicks. One day in our training ride a neighborhood kid was riding around with us without a helmet. Michael asked him if he had a helmet and the kid said "no". Michael pulled a helmet out of his van and told the kid "I better never catch you riding without a helmet now". Michael is a true inspiration, not only for living life fully, but also caring for others.

Sunday mornings

Last summer I had the pleasure of training with Michael. I was lucky enough to get to know him and Cecilia through other Rogue programs. I couldn't participate in the whole cycling group he was coaching, but he'd still generously let me tag along for long rides on Sunday mornings. Michael was an incredibly caring coach with a heart-warming smile and an amazing attitude. I will miss him--especially on Sunday mornings.

Always the Coach

I too met Michael through Iron Chicks training last year. He wasn't my official cycling coach, yet he still left a lasting impression when he'd come and help out. I was a very nervous beginner, and I remember him riding up next to me and just asking if I was doing okay, probably because he could see my white knuckles poised on my brakes. He was always so kind and ready to help, and (as everyone's noted) always had a smile and piece of advice to share. Our whole community has lost so much with the loss of Michael. He will be greatly missed.

Dedicated and Caring

I also had the good fortune to have Michael as my Iron Chicks coach this spring. Each Thursday evening he was there to teach us, support us and encourage us. I was always amazed at his lightning speed on the bike as he would seem to be in more than one place at a time - making sure we were safe. We would come to an intersection and he would be stopped there letting us know that we could bike on through, and the next thing I knew, he had biked ahead and was helping us again. I will always have the memory of getting out of the swim (my least favorite) at this year's Danskin, frustrated with my time. All of a sudden I hear this "way to go Alice, looking good" - I look over to see his smiling face and it was contagious. I think I smiled as I ran up the hill knowing that my favorite part was ahead and I was so prepared because of his coaching. Unfortunately I never got to thank him because we left the next day for vacation, but knowing him, I think he knows anyway. Thank you Michael, you were an awesome coach and we will miss your quiet presence and your neverending smile.

Lucky to have known him

It says a lot about the kind of person Michael was that he made such a big impression on me even though I only knew him a short time. I met him at my very first Iron Chicks brick when he did the whole bike ride right by my side, poking fun at my fear by telling me that bike riding could not be nearly as hard or scary as my day job teaching fifth grade. I always looked forward to seeing him at those Saturday workouts and he always took time out to offer words of encouragement and motivation. I am honored to have had the opportunity to get to know him and I will be missing him for a million times longer than the few months I knew him.

More then Words

I was lucky enough to have met Michael through Rogue's Iron Chicks program. I think of him as my coach, my friend. When I think about Michael, I immediately envision his smiling face. Although I only knew him for a short time, I felt like he was an old friend. He was truly interested in other people's lives and was always checking in. I will always remember him as a caring man with nothing but encouraging words. I have a heavy heart, as I try to process this tragic event. My deepest sympathy to both his family and Cecilia. See y'all on 7/20 to celebrate the life of one of the nicest people I have known.

Fun, Caring, Joyful

I was lucky enough to be in 2 years of Iron Chicks with Michael as my cycling coach (and Cecilia as my run coach one of those years). I cannot begin to express in words the impression he made on me. What a spirit. He was always so fun and caring and exuded this inner warmth that is so rare. There aren’t many people that make you smile when you think of them – Michael was one of those rare few. If we needed anything – a tire change, bottle of water, or just a gentle push to get our training going – Michael was there. What I remember most was his genuine interest in helping people. He would send us emails for various rides or training he was doing outside of Rogue – he didn’t need to invite his students, but he did because he cared. He was one of the most inclusive people…you were just taken into the fold. My heart is breaking for Cecilia and his family. What a loss to this world. Michael, you will be missed dearly.

A Great Coach

Michael was my coach in spring and summer of 2007 for Iron Chicks I and II. He was an amazing coach, mainly because he was such an amazing person. He and Cecilia put so much time and effort into coaching us and made it very clear that they cared for each and every one of us, both as athletes and people. One of the things I will always remember is how we started each running and cycling training. Michael would gather us in a circle and have each of us check in with the group, sharing training tips, event recaps, or general good news. He made sure that we knew everyone else in the group and he really made us feel like a tight group. I appreciated that as much as I cared about running and cycling techniques. He was a great guy, a wonderful coach, and he will be missed.

thinking of his loved ones...

Michael was my coach for the 2007 Danskin. I remember very clearly our days cycling, running, and swimming, and how he was constantly positive, encouraging, and ready to laugh. My training buddy, Michelle, and I had countless conversations about how wonderful Michael was and how he was our sole motivation to keep training on the days when we felt tired and couldn't find the motivation within ourselves. Michael was tireless in his generosity, his good humor, and his kindness. My thoughts are with Cecilia and Michael's family and friends. Michael was one of those people that just gets into your heart. I hope it provides some comfort to his loved ones that so many people felt so much joy for having had time with him.

An Inspiring Father

I didn't know Mike very well, but I know his son, Nathan. Because of what a great guy Nathan is, I've always thought highly of Mike for doing such a great job of raising such a strong godly young man. Nathan is the one who convinced me to die for Christ. We were once talking about what to do if held hostage with a gun to our heads. If the captors said we could go free if we just said that we didn't believe in Christ, we talked about what we would do. Nathan was sure about taking the bullet and not hesitating to stay firm in his belief of and acknowledgement of Christ. I was a little less sure, but Nathan quickly snapped me into shape and made me realize there is no other option. I shared the story with Mike. He was obviously proud of what an amazing son he has, but I was even more impressed by what an amazing dad he was to have raised such a strong Christian young man who has the ability to bring a 43 year old to his knees and get him closer to Christ. I also know how much Mike loved his son Daniel. The last time I saw Mike was at a concert of Daniel's at Red Eyed Fly downtown. Mike and I visited a few minutes about their performance (which was awesome). He was extremely proud of Daniel and more than willing to support his son in any way he could. Even though I didn't know Mike very well, he is a great inspiration to me. He made great sacrifices for his sons and did such a great job of raising them and being an example to them. Our memories of him will last and guide us forever.

Encouraging words

Like many folks here, though I didn't spend a lot of time with Michael, I did feel that I knew him well. His character shines through even in what brief interactions people had with him. Most of our conversations revolved around our latest endeavors in running or biking (mountain biking for me) and what was happening in our church. He always had words to encourage me and others along. Michael thoroughly gave of himself, serving in men's ministry, sports ministry, missions, prayer team, and probably many other areas that I am not aware of. Last Sunday when they announced his passing in church a gasp fell across the crowd of about 900 people attending, probably many of whom knew him. I look forward to celebrating his life at his service and on the ride on the 20th.

Ride on!

Michael coached me during two seasons of Iron Chicks and ran with me during the AT&T Marathon Training. Everytime I would refer to him, if not me, someone would say "He is the nicest guy." That just became his thing and will forever. Michael will always live within us as athletes and as individuals when we think of a motivator,coach,mentor, and just plain "nice guy." The passion,candor,dedicaton, and sincere desire to see others succeed will never be laid to rest. Michael always titled his emails "Ride On" when he sent the details for our next group ride that he would plan. He would always cordinate rides, even if he was the only one that showed, so that everyone had the opportunity to ride. Even if he wasn't riding that day, he would still send the details for everyone. I think "Ride On" is so fitting b/c forever Michael will ride on in our hearts and minds. He will dearly be missed!!! Ride on Michael!!

A Love for Coaching

Michael loved coaching and his Iron Chicks and fellow Rogues. He was always interested in suggestions/comments to improve his coaching to help us succeed in our goals - a very unselfish caring person. He told us of getting up early before his recent bike race on Padre Island to set up water stops for Cecilia during a solo 14 mile training run. He felt bad when he had to leave her so that he could get to his start line. Always looking out and providing support. I remembered how excited he was to be going to Boston with Cecilia to see the Olympic time trails and the marathon. He sent a few emails with "did I mention I was heading to Boston?" Michael will be missed and remembered by all. We are thinking of you and your family. Socks away...

Amazing coach and person

I was also one of Michael and Cecilia's Iron Chicks this year. Michael was an inspiring, caring, and kind coach, who knew how to encourage us to keep trying even when we felt like giving up. When he spoke about Cecilia or one of his kids, you could see in his eyes that he loved them with every fiber of his being. Alice mentioned that Michael always seemed to be in more than one place at a time. It's true; he was always there when someone needed him. I will never forget seeing his smiling face and hearing his encouraging words at the Danskin. He managed to be at the swim exit, on the side of the last big hill on the bike, and on the last, most miserable hill on the run. When I got to that hill, I saw Michael walking up the hill with a woman who thought she couldn't continue on. He kept telling her how strong she was, and that she could do it. When I passed them, he shouted words of encouragement to me while continuing to encourage the woman up the hill. Michael just had room in his heart for everyone; he was not just a great coach, but an amazing person as well. I feel so honored to have known him. My deepest sympathy to Cecilia and his family.

The Tallwood Advocate

Michael was my Iron Chicks I and II coach in 2007. Aside from wanting to make sure that we were each successful at our triathlon goal, whether it be a specific time or just finishing, Michael truly wanted to know us as people, and wanted all of us to know each other. He knew that we were stronger as group than we were alone - and we were strongest because of our fantastic leader. A common feature of our bike course was a short but particularly steep hill on Tallwood. I think I complained about that hill every time we rode it, but Michael just smiled that knowing smile, and said, "Aw, come on Brandi, you know you love it." And then on the hottest days, when I was exhausted getting up that hill, Micheal rode beside me, encouraging me the whole way. And once I made it up, he congratulated me, turned around, sped down the hill, and then climbed it again with the person coming up next.

Ride on indeed...

I had the privilege to join one of Michael's riding groups last year with Rogue (my very first) and it was an awesome experience. He was such a positive person and a great coach. Michael was passionate about cycling and shared his passion with other riders of all abilities. The time and care Michael devoted to his riding group was very much appreciated. In memory of Michael, I will ride on!

Supportive Coach

I met Michael this spring during training for the Danskin Tri. I was the slowest cycler in my group, but Michael was always kind, gentle and supportive in his coaching. He encouraged the efforts I made and was non-judgmental. And when it came time to get up the long big hill during the Danskin there was Michael on the side cheering us on with encouraging words. His presence was a comfort, even in the short time I knew him. He was a beautiful example of a human being and he will be greatly missed. Thank you, Michael, for your time.

One of the Good Guys

I met Michael last summer when I was his assistant coach for Rogue's Summer Cycling program. Throughout all those long rides, Michael's passion and enthusiasm never wavered. In fact, I can't think of a single time that I've ever seen the guy without a smile on his face (well, okay, maybe once or twice). When I got the news Saturday night of the accident, I, like everyone else, was in shock--I couldn't believe that the world had lost this man. Michael was many things to many people--loving partner, proud father, talented coach; the list goes on. I'm so proud to have known him and to have been able to call him "friend."

From Michael's Marathon Training Group

A year ago I did not know Michael Argall. A friend and running partner of mine picked a particular marathon training program for us to do here in Austin and Michael joined as well, a serendipitous accident. Or not - always more a cyclist than runner, Michael coached a road cycling program for the same training organization. In any event, as the months of training wore on and the long runs became longer, the group tended to self-divide by long run pace. Most often, there were seven, sometimes eight of us that ran together, with others coming and going at various times. We spent what seemed endless hours together and often made up questions and topics to talk about – if you’re out with a small group for three to four or more hours, you have to talk about something, and it’s usually not running. So we did some embarrassing (but not to us) questions about sex, which I won’t go into here as this is a family-rated blog. We also had interesting topics such as what part of a person of the sex you’re attracted to do you notice first, and what do you think they notice first about you? If you’d like to post a reply to this blog with your answers, please feel free. Or how about, imagine a scale of one to ten with 1 being completely homosexual and 10 being completely heterosexual. Where do you fall and, as a prerequisite, there are no 1’s or 10’s? You’d think this might be getting too sensitive for a group bound together chiefly by marathon training, but in our case you’d be wrong. We also had a day where you had to describe your inner self in one word. One person did it with the word “Seeker,” which certainly fits. Many of the others were allowed two words as they used the “to” version of a verb. I don’t remember them all, but one was “to understand." Michael’s was “to serve.” He wasn’t boasting or making fun, he was just being Michael: a friendly, kind, caring person who just wanted to make the world better for you, whether he knew you well or not. One of the nicest, most open and honest people I’ve known. Truly one of the good guys. This weekend, he was out riding his bicycle in the Texas Hill Country near Fredericksburg, a lovely area for road cyclists. A car came along, its’ driver momentarily blinded by the sun - he struck Michael without ever seeing him. In two days we’ll bury him, but we damn sure won’t forget. Michael, I miss you greatly, and I’ll risk being presumptive and extend it to the rest of those who knew you. We miss you, and we’re so glad you came into our lives. This post came from my blog. If you'd like to see it, please go to http://blog.360.yahoo.com/blog-mAUWdfYlaKuZHftvlWrl3g--?cq=1 or write me at tsmall51@yahoo.com

He was a Warrior

I had the pleasure and blessing of doing 2 mission trips with Michael. I can't explain what he gave me. Encouragement, sure, love, sure, something much much more....Michael was an example to me, an example of what a Godly man could be like. He had ALL the fruits of the Spirit. Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self Control. Every good thing the Father wants us to have. This guy was a WARRIOR for God. It was so obvious to the community at Gateway, it is no surprise that he was also that way with his passion, riding and those people in his life. He was that way with total strangers. We are all very lucky to have had a friend like Michael. I take with me wherever I go, a part of him. My heart mourns for all of us left behind to finish this liferace without his love and encouragement, especially his children. But, my friends, I do not mourn for my brother Michael, in fact I celebrate him. He is in perfect peace with our Father in heaven. If you pray, and you should, pray for Michael's children and family. Pray for God to do a mighty healing work in the family. And most importantly, we must pray for the lady who was driving the minivan, she must live with this tragedy. She also needs our love and support. My bet is, right now, Michael is doing what he did Sundays during prayer meeting, he's looking down 'shooting' prayers on us, bidding God to pour down love, peace, grace and mercy on all of us. Celebrate Michaels life with me will you? Take the goodness we got from Michael and give it selflessly to someone else. I think that'd make him smile.

Glad I Reconnected with Michael

In 1988 my husband, Peter, prayed for a Christian co-worker at Travis County Sheriff's Dept. and along came Michael Argall. We met his wife, Shamayne, and they became our best married friends. Michael and Shamayne started coming to our church. We had our children around the same time and helped to support Shamayne and the kids when Michael went to the Gulf War. The best thing of all was when Shamayne was present with me during the home birth of our 5th child. Michael was in the kitchen making pancakes for 6 kids. Michael and Peter began a cleaning service together. Unfortunately our circumstances changed and our families drifted apart. I knew Michael was running, but had no idea about biking and coaching until this past Thursday. My best friend, Michelle, and I started training for the Danskin after the Capitol 10K and met Callie from Iron Chicks at Williamson County park. She was helping a group of moms train and invited us to join their group. We did and had a wonderful experience at the Danskin. The group wanted to continue learning and training and hired a bike coach, Michael Argall. I knew it was our Michael. He saw my name and wondered if it was me. We had our first ride together. We talked and caught up as much as we could and promised to rekindle our friendship. My friend, Michelle, maybe got to be the last person bringing up the rear in a ride to experience Michael's loving encouragement. When I found out that Michael was killed just two days later, I was shocked. However, I truly know that Michael is with Jesus having the best time!!!! My husband, kids, and I will greatly miss him. I know I want to continue to ride and train. See you all on 7/20.

So patient and supportive

Michael was truly patient and supportive as my Iron Chicks coach. His support never wavered no matter how grumpy, frustrated, angry or fearful I felt/acted. On our long rides, when I was always in the back, he - or Cecelia - would have to ride with me so I wouldn't get left behind. I always appreciated the time they spent with me. He truly seemed to care about the success of the women he coached. He was a good man, a good father and a really good coach. He was generous and kind and I'm glad that I got a chance to know him.

Inspired

Few things are as inspirational as getting to experience an activity with people who both love and excel at it. In the few times I got to learn from Michael during this Spring's Iron Chicks, I felt encouraged and excited by my new found cycling skills. His enthusisam for the sport and for coaching will continue to influence my riding.

DEFINITE ROLE MODEL

Although Michael has taught several TCSO safety courses, I've only recently met Michael and we were in the "infant stages" of organizing a local triathlon. Michael will continue to be a mentor and role model for years to come. I can only hope to aspire to be such a leader as he. John Kraft TCSO Complex Security

My Hero

I had the privilege of having Michael as my coach for three training sessions. The first, last summer, was both his first and my first with Rogue's Iron Chicks. I had been coming off a long, frustrating illness and felt so beaten by the smallest initial workouts. Michael's and Cecelia's encouraggement, and the group spirit they fostered, helped me put that challenge aside and rediscover my love of athletics and gratitude for being able to use my body again that way. Not to be the fastest, but just to be out there. He helped me find that joy again, and so much of that was knowing that I'd get to see his smiling face if I just showed up and did the work. This year, he took the time to help me see how much I had progressed from the prior year. "Don't you see how much stronger you are???" or "Whew! I could barely catch you down that hill, girl!" It brings me to tears to realize how precious his gift to me and to so many others truly was. I'll think of him anytime I get on my bike, or conquer another challenge. We all got spoiled by his generosity and attention and his zest for life. I'll always be grateful to Rogue for bringing he, Cecelia, and so many incredible women into my life.

Smile, a perfect start to a perfect day

I am a former Iron Chick not coached by Mike but I knew this summer I was missing out. I wasn't in the Tri program and heard from my friends that he was a fantastic bike coach. (oh and so is Ramsey) I wanted to call him a few times while at work to ask him if I could join his group for one ride but I never did. I figured I'd have another chance as my thoughts were I'd do a fall /winter bike class. I knew Mike from work (TCSO) and I loved when we would visit either at Rogue or at Work. My last fondest memory of Mike which is so very vivid is from around 3 weeks ago. I was running with my group from Rogue on Saturday morning it was around 6:55 am we were running east side when I heard my name being called from behind. My thought was who is calling out my name that knows me from behind. As I turn my head, Mike is flying by on his bike. Now ahead of me he's looking back at me with his hand waving. His smile so beautiful made me smile and I waved back. I will never forget his smile and will treasure the memory. It was a perfect start to a perfect day. Mike = wonderful,beautiful, genuine, friend. I'm so proud to have known him. Mike you will be missed. You are missed.

The smiley guy

I did one ironchicks program in 2007 and noticed him up front of the room when all the coaches were being introduced. He was noticable cuz he was the only man in that room. He was so happy to be there and you could tell he was going to be an awesome coach for the newbies with Ironchicks. I saw him at the 2008 Danskin cheering the girls on. They loved him! I never got to speak to him or ride with him. When I heard about the accident I was saying I hope it is not that one guy. I am so sad that such a smiley, good looking, and kind man such as him is just gone.

Gentle Coach

I was in Michael and Cecelia's training group for two years with Iron Chicks. I fondley remember the first time he tried to guide us through a neighborhood bike course. He described the route, "First you turn on Silverleaf and the take the next street Silverbend. Go down the hill and turn right on Fir street and then a left on Beetle Street (All street names have been changed because I don't remember any of them.) After about five minutes of describing the route, Michael found himself surrounded by a phalanx of Iron Chicks looking rather clueless. One brave soul spoke up, "You know we are all women...." Michael encouraged us by telling us we would ride the course together then it would all make sense. It didn't. We did manage to stick together as a group. I do remember one person going the wrong way (Cecilia.) After this meeting of the minds, Michael always showed up for our rides with little course descriptions in ziplocks. He still tried to describe the course, but we were glad we had the ride sheets.

Made you feel like you belonged...

I met Michael at Gateway Community Church back in '03. Our paths crossed again in the Fall of '06 during the LIVESTRONG Challange bike training. Wow, what a coach! He opted to stay with us beginner women to make sure we were okay. Michael's patience and understanding towards new cyclist made it so worthwhile to keep training hard. Michael, you are an angel. May your loving spirit continue to ride with us throughout time.

You will be missed but not forgotten

Words cannot express the gratitude I have for the guidance and direction Michael offered all the Iron Chicks he helped! I benefitted greatly from Michael's wisdom, experience and care. He came prepared and early with a cooler of water, a smile and a big heart to help everyone succeed. I'm so fortunate to have been coached by Michael. He will certainly be missed but not forgotten. My thoughts are with Cecilia, his kids and those who will miss him. What a great man! Thank you Michael!

a life-changing friend

I met Michael through a running group he and Ceclia (and others) coached for church. I didn't know him well, but he is one whose kindness shines through in all he pursues. After reading these posts, I'm struck by how many people Michael impacted throughout his short life. My sincere condolences are with his family and close friends. I know he will be missed terribly.

Thanks for Being You Michael

I am honored to have known Michael, to have coached alongside him, and to have been graced by his warm smiles. Michael graced the world with his caring and compassionate personality. He was a man confident in his capabilities, yet not afraid to let another coach know he didn't know how to fix something wrong with a bike (at least for a few moments). He cared about how others were doing and took the time to reach out and help. Michael set the bar pretty high (sometimes you just have to ask, what would Michael do?). My heart goes out to all of Michael's children, Cecilia, and family and friends. See you in the next life Michael!

Please BE KIND To Cyclists

I recently found out about Michael’s crash, another tragic event that leaves us with no answers, no explanations of what happened or why it happened. The only thing we know for sure is that Michael is not here with us because someone was driving irresponsibly, without awareness of her surrounding. What happed exactly? Who was at fault? Is this accident a cause of nature? We will never know if the driver’s explanation of the accident is the complete truth. We all know that it was an accident, she did not get in her car with the intentions of killing Michael, but it was certainly an accident that could have been avoided. Only if we are more aware of our surroundings and are less selfish and more conscious that driving a car is not a mindless action. It requires our full attention, 100% of the time, not 20% driving and 80% on the cell phone or reading a map. Driving requires living the moment at all times. When a person drives, it’s like holding a gun. Yes, a car is transportation, but it is also a killing machine. You might think this is a joke. It is not. The pain and void that is left behind is huge and it will be carried for at least one generation, his kids. What about his girlfriend, his parents, family and friends? No one can ever imagine what it feels like until it happens to you. I didn’t know Michael, but I don’t need to know every cyclist out there. In my eyes, we are all one, the message is only one, “we love to ride our bikes”, we love the freedom that comes when we get on our bikes, whether it is to commute, for training or simply cruise around town with our kids. No one, NO ONE, deserves to die doing what he/she loves to do. Michael hurt no one when he rode his bike, and now we are all hurt because he will no longer ride his bike. It is not just that another cyclists got killed in Texas. Michael was not just a cyclists, he was a father, a son, a grandson, a boyfriend, a great friend, a member of his church, an awesome coach and I am sure many other important roles in someone else’s life. I am not just a founder of Please BE KIND To Cyclists, I am also a cyclist, whom, for the rest of my life, will live with the scars left behind by someone who was also not paying attention and was driving irresponsibly. My heart and my prayers go out to everyone who feels the loss of a friend and a great human being. Michael sacrificed his life so we can all be free out there doing what we love to do, so let’s all make sure his life was not in vain. This is the time when we should all join together and send a LOUD message to everyone behind the wheel, Please BE KIND To Cyclists. Please be aware of your surroundings, be on the look out for cyclists. It is easy to miss one if you are not aware that they could be out there. And cyclist, please do your share: be respectful, courteous and ride your bike responsibly. Your loved ones are waiting for you at home.

Great coach

I am so shocked and saddened to hear of Michael's death. I was in the Ironchicks program, and though he wasn't one of my main coaches, he came to a number of the Saturday practices, and he gave a lot of encouragement at the Danskin. I was on the last hill of the bike at the Danskin, and it was really getting to me... but then I hear Mike's voice on the sidelines yelling to me, "This hill is YOURS! You OWN it! Take it!!!" And it was the push I needed to finish the bike. Then, it was as if he was everywhere in that race - because he was there to show encouragement at that last hill on the run too! It was like there were a dozen Mikes strategically placed at different points in the race. Although I didn't know him well, his presence was always appreciated and enjoyed - he was a funny guy, very positive, very much someone you wanted to be around. My thoughts are with his friends and family in these hard times. It's a terrible loss. May our memories of Mike help his kindness and positive energy to live on through us.