Kathy Urschel passed away yesterday from a tragic home accident while visiting friends in Vermont. In Central New York Kathy is famous for being a deaf and blind para-Olympic cyclist. Kathy’s exploits took her to the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and other track competitions throughout the world.
Her latest goal was to compete in the the Race Across America (RAAM) in June 2011. This would mark her comeback to cycling after suffering a devastating crash 11 years ago that put her in a coma and left her right side paralyzed. She came back from that and was cycling again.
I did not know Kathy personally, but was inspired by her story and adventures. I’ve ridden with her and her partner Mike Hopper in the days when she was leading up to the competition. Kathy and Mike were legendary on Onondaga Cycling Club rides for the speed they maintained on the tandem and the much welcome drafts they gave to suffering riders.
Her personal site: http://www.kathyurschel.com/
It’s a sad end to an inspiring and determined person. Kathy will be missed. RIP.