Steve Worland, a highly respected cycling journalist, has died of a heart attack while out jogging.
Worland, a former editor of What Mountain Bike, died yesterday while running in Ashton Court, Bristol, reports Road CC.
He was one of the leading lights of mountain bike journalism, having started out writing for Mountain Biking UK in the early 90s, before moving on to edit What Mountain Bike.
He was a highly sought after freelance writer, renowned for his technical expertise, fair bike reviews and good spirited nature.
Long-time friend and fellow journalist, Guy Kesteven, said: "If mountain biking had a John Peel it was Steve. An unparalleled pioneer with an unfathomable depth of wisdom who was way ahead of the curve with most ideas, from short stems and long top tubes to racing full suspension cross-country and experimenting with 'weird' wheel sizes.
"He had remarkable mix of individuality and fierce passion for what he believed in, yet was always incredibly approachable, patient and inspirational as a mentor or writer. It was a pleasure to read Steve's quietly spoken, infinitely wise, wry smile-wreathed text and an honour to ride in his tyre tracks. He'll always be weaving through the singletrack and syntax with me. A true legend and a life very well lived indeed. Thanks Steve."
In his youth, Worland had been an accomplished rider, progressing through track leagues, time trials and road racing. He also represented Team GB at three world championships in the early days of mountain biking.
Mountain Biking UK editor, Danny Walter, said:"Steve was hugely influential to MBUK and What Mountain Bike over the years. He defined the way we carry out all our testing and his fair-minded and knowledgable approach was an inspiration to all of us who worked closely with him. We will deeply miss Steve and his incredible passion for bikes."
A statement from Future said: “Everyone at Future who was lucky enough to work with Steve knew him as a principled and good-hearted man. His knowledge and passion for all aspects of cycling was second to none and we will miss him as a colleague and friend."
Our thoughts are with his family and friends, including his partner Jo and daughter Holly.
Steve Worland
