The good, the bad and the ugly.

Bad news, exciting racing and more bad news - in that order. Thursday night brought the news that a cyclist was hit by a car and very badly hurt. Friday morning brought the news that he was a friend - a lovely guy, father of two little kiddies. 

As we raced the National Duathlon Championships, he was being operated on. As we 'suffered' through a brutal run course, fast bike and another brutal run - in super hot and dry conditions, Silvan was being put together by an amazing team of surgeons, nurses and doctors. There was a moment of joy for me, when I managed to take the title. It was hard fought as my competitors are super strong and I have full respect for their abilities. But that joy couldn't be complete. Because far more important than a title, is our role in our families. Thinking of his little kids - the eldest is the same age as mine - gives me goosebumps. This is too close to home.

There is hope for my friend. He is moving his legs - an amazing feat considering his multiple severe injuries. We, the cycling and sporting community, must now be there for him. We must visit often and be positive and encouraging. We must be ready to support him in every way possible. To this end, The Cyclist cycling club is collecting donations to help support his family in this difficult time. I encourage my friends to donate, via the Cyclist shop in San Gwann. 

And yet....

Yesterday another cyclist was hurt. Those haunting images of the smashed and bloody bus windscreen and the bike on the ground - the same model as I use...it's just too much!

I appeal to all my friends to drive carefully. To SEE us, to share the road with us. I appeal to all my friends to cycle carefully. I appeal to the government and the courts to see that proper justice is done - and SEEN to be done. I appeal to motoring schools and Transport Malta to work to educate our drivers, young and old. 

Because the ugly truth is that it's a jungle out there - you have to be on your guard as you drive, cycle, walk and even use a bus - people have been seriously hurt using ALL modes of transport. And until, we Maltese learn to respect everyone else around us - properly...this is how it's going to be.