Today was the inaugural ride for the Winter Bike League of the Upstate area of South Carolina ... departing from a popular triathlon shop in Greenville. Approximately 60 riders struck out on the 75 mile route under chilly, grey skies. Approximately 59 riders arrived back at the finish in a cold rain.

Phil Whitman was 61 years old and had been a cyclist for 30 years. This summer, he won the South Carolina state TT championship in his age group. Apparently, the pace got pretty quick today as weather conditions deteriorated. The large group of riders began to break up, but Phil was hanging on at the front with the Cat. 2 and masters guys.

It was reported to me that the EMT said Phil was probably dead before he hit the ground. He apparently suffered a heart attack on his bike. When he went down, he took out a handful of riders who sustained minor injuries. The incident happened near the most remote part of the route and it took EMTs a long time to respond. CPR was administered by a medical student who was along on the ride.

I was not on this ride and I don't know Phil. Maybe some of you do. What a sad story. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.

Bob C.