JB - Fellow Cyclist, Photographer and our Friend

Many hearts were broken this week with the news that John, affectionally known as JB, passed last Thursday. Not only was JB a cyclist but was a fixture on the sidelines taking photos of every race he attended. There were times when JB said it was a tossup as to whether he should buy a new bike or a new lens for his camera. After a JB sighting at a race, folks were patient to wait for the great photos he shared with everyone. When I saw him at a crit in downtown Norfolk, he lit up when he saw Kevin Dillard there because of the common bond they shared capturing the perfect picture.

I got to know JB back in 2004. I would see him here at the beach, see him in DC the next day, hear that he made a quick trip up to NY to race and then would head down to Florida to see his folks. When he wasn’t racing and chasing races up and down I-95 he was taking care of his patients and doing that quite well.

JB was also a cat lover and named his cats after cycling heroes. JB was a gentle giant.

I feel lucky that JB and Barb were able to come to Bike Va where we spent lots of miles on the road and many drinks poolside. I also feel blessed that JB was able to come to my home often for meals. His laugh and smile always lit up a room.

JB was a man behind the scenes. He was known to drive bikes for cyclists out of state while the cyclists were able to fly to their destination. He started his blog “Love2Ride” back in July, 2005, which was read by everyone. He did mountain bike endurance events, crits, Ironcross, road races and gave hours of his time to clean up trails. He never met a stranger. He never brought attention to himself, he always gave to others.

JB – We miss you, we all loved you. May you rest in peace.

BJ aka Podium Cat

A photoshow has been created in JB's honor. You can view it at:

http://www.photoshow.com/watch/Hk7WM3GD