More sad news

I met him for a pizza in Minden last year. We were both totally worn out after long drives. I had pulled John Cochrane's ASG-29 from Chicago two days earlier ahead of 18 meter nationals and he had been in SoCal picking up the Ventus that he eventually flew to 2nd. We still had a nice chat about soaring, the 13.5 meter class, my upcoming participation in sports class nationals, etc.

Since then I've also been on the receiving end of a few very nice notes like Chip mentioned. One during the PAGC after a very good showing on a difficult day and just a few weeks ago after Francois and I had a very good flight together in Cordele, Rick commented "Pair flying perfection. Well done."

As with so many others, we can only remember the excellent example that has been set in this sport and do our best to carry the torch. Good finish, Rick.

Sad beyond words, Rick was one of the real good guys in this sport. I remember Rick as a kid flying his Standard Cirrus in the first Sports Class Nationals at Minden. He built our club house at Air Sailing and CD'd a regionals there. What a loss..............mark the next thermal for me old friend..
JJ Sinclair

From Paul Mayfield

First of all, an explanation.
I spoke with Ricks brother, Jeff Walters this morning.

Rick was riding his new titanium road bike at speed and something
caused a horrible accident.
It might have been a rock, a high-speed wobble, nobody knows.
Rick suffered severe head trauma and was airlifted to hospital.
At 4:05 am this morning he was taken off life support.

The accident took place near Hope Valley, a beautiful place.