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Mark Reynolds: January 15, 1960 - April 19, 2008
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Mark Reynolds died on Saturday April 19, 2008, following a racing accident during the Sea Otter Classic. Mark, who was just 48 years old, was competing in the Downhill Race.
"Mark was a pioneer for downhill racing and free-riding," said Jay Costa, a close friend of Mark. "He was definitely a mentor to a lot of local guys."
Family members and friends described him as the anchor of the family, a man who inspired them and others, who was perennially happy and "the life of the party." He worked primarily as a software consultant, but his love was mountain biking. His back yard was full of makeshift wooden ramps and jumps that he would use as springboards while toying around.
Mark was a lifelong lover of mountain biking and other adrenaline-pumping endeavors such as snowboarding, wakeboarding and piloting airplanes. He'd even jump from the roof of a backyard shed - just for fun.
But beyond the thrill, biking was serious business for Mark. He owned Wicked Racin, a mountain bike company he operated out of his tan bungalow home. He created what is known as a Dualrailleur Guide, a prototype that allows the rider to shift between two front chain rings. This was a huge help during downhill treks, according to Mountain Bike Action magazine, which featured his creation in its October 2007 issue. Mark had recently applied for a U.S. patent for the product.
As an avid cyclist, he inspired his friends and encouraged younger riders. "Mark was upbeat, and most of all, happy to be doing what he loved," wrote Rob Howard of Bikeskills.
Mark was the anchor of his family. He was perennially happy and the life of the party. He leaves behind his wife, Margo Maida, and their 21-year-old daughter. "He was magical. He made me laugh every day," Margo said. "He encouraged me, he held my hand every night in bed, and he wanted me to be happy. He made me feel whole."
Mark – we will miss you.
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