Editorial
Cyclist Suleiman Kangangi has died, aged 33, after his 59-mile Vermont race over the weekend.
According to reports, the sportsman – who raced for Team Amani – passed away following a high-speed crash on August 28.
His team released a statement on social media which reads: “Sule is our captain, friend, brother. He is also a father, husband and son.
“Gaping holes are left when giants fall. Sule was a giant.
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“Instead of leading us at the front of the pack, he will now lead us as our guiding pole star as we press forward in the realisation of his dream.”
The wife of the Kenyan president-elect William Ruto, Rachel Ruto, also released a statement about Kangangi.
She said: “My heartfelt condolences to his family, and the entire cycling community, that has lost a talented cyclist, a mentor and a friend.
“We will all miss him as an individual. Kenya has lost a champion. Rest in peace Sule.”
The day before his tragic passing, Kangangi competed in the Vermont race against 900 other cyclists. It was won by Amani’s John Kariuki, with teammate Jordan Schleck finishing third.
The event’s organiser, Ansel Dickey, addressed the tragedy, stating: “Vermont Overland is completely heartbroken.
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“We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, his friends, Team Amani, and the people of Kenya.”
A memorial fund has been set up on GoFundMe by Kangangi’s friends, in order to support the cyclist’s wife and children.
Its bio reads: “Please give generously to support Sule’s family as they grieve and bear the short and long-term costs of losing a dear husband and father.”
Its target is $40,000, however, it’s surpassed this and now reached more than $60,000.
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