Remembering Mike Hall

Sadly the 2017 Indian Pacific Wheel Race was cancelled after the tragic loss of Mike Hall in the early hours of March 31st.

Jesse Carlsson, race organizer, posted the following:

Photos by Gene Kehoe.

The Indian Pacific Wheel Race showcased the extraordinary abilities of Mike and also the individual adventurousness of all the riders. The battle between Mike and Kristof captured enormous interest. Around the world millions of people watched the race coverage. Thousands of messages flowed in from people inspired by the riders’ efforts; some motivated to ride a bike for the first time in years. Fans followed the riders online and came out of their houses, even in the middle of the night, to line the streets to cheer them on. In doing so, parents showed their children the importance of adventure and living life to the fullest. Those who didn't know Mike three weeks ago are now heartbroken having never even met the man. They followed his adventure, tuning in each day, willing him on and now they mourn his loss. The stories from the road from all adventures teach us not to wait, but to live right now.

Our thoughts are with Mike's family and closest friends at this difficult time. Our thoughts are also with all others directly affected by this tragic accident, including the driver and those closest to the driver.

It takes a special sort of courage to start, and a rare motivation to finish, the things that Mike did in his short life. Mike excelled in the longest and most difficult cycling events in existence – it was not about prize money or material winnings. He did them to see if he could. He relished the challenge of testing his mental and physical limits. He loved the thrill of the race. His super-human abilities made him a hero, but Mike’s humility and care for fellow competitors made him a true champion.

Mike, through his Transcontinental Race, is largely responsible for building the million-strong global community of endurance cyclists and race fans who now support each other in this tough time. The nature of this community is humble, sharing and inclusive. This is a reflection of Mike as one of its founders and leaders. Before Mike's race was established, unsupported endurance cycling events were low-key and only those who looked hard for them could find them. Mike saw the importance of giving these races more prominence. He knew that by telling the stories of the riders, more of us would be inspired to take on bold challenges in cycling or elsewhere in life.

We draw some comfort from knowing that Mike's life made a million lives richer. The huge crowds of supporters who rode in tribute events all around the world is proof of that. It is our job now to ensure his good work and inspiration continues. Mike’s spirit will always be with us.

I don't expect things to get better, they'll just be different from now on.

The celebration of Mike’s life will be held on Tuesday 2nd May at around 12:45 at Pavilions of Harrogate – Wharfe Room. More information see https://www.mikehall.cc/