By David Bern — The LoToJa Classic family is mourning the loss of one of the race’s most passionate competitors and supporters.
Larry Peterson, 81, of Centerville, Utah, died on Sept. 7 from injuries sustained in a crash the day before while racing in the 43rd annual LoToJa Classic.
Peterson, who has ridden LoToJa 13 times and won four of its category titles, crashed on US 89 a few miles west of Montpelier, Idaho.
No other cyclists or vehicles were involved. A physician on scene reportedly said it appeared Peterson had passed out before the crash.
He was transported by ambulance to a hospital in Montpelier and then airlifted to a hospital in Pocatello. He underwent emergency surgery that afternoon, but died the next day with family by his side.
A funeral service for Peterson was held on Sept. 18 in Centerville. Graveside services were held the next day at Sutton Cemetery in Rexburg, Idaho.
tesy Cary Peterson.
Peterson was more than a frequent LoToJa participant. He started riding a bike at age 63 and quickly fell in love with the sport. He accrued thousands of training miles every year and participated in many cycling events and races.
His passion for the bike inspired countless other cyclists to join him on the road. He loved being competitive, but also loved helping others new to the sport. He often drifted back to help new riders who couldn’t keep up during group rides.
That desire to help also led to acts of community service. At charity rides over the years, he raised more than $52,000 for the Huntsman Cancer Institute.
LoToJa race director Brent Chambers said that Peterson was known as a cycling legend, not only for his passion for the bike and winning exploits in the race, but also for his generous spirit.
“I feel blessed to have known Larry and I express my heartfelt condolences to his family for their loss,” Chambers said. “I will miss him, his friendship, his input to help make LoToJa more accessible for older riders, and the energy he brought to LoToJa every time he rode it. He was an inspiration. And he will continue to inspire.”
The family has asked for those who would like to honor Peterson, to do so by making a donation in his name to the Huntsman Cancer Institute at hope.huntsmancancer.org/diy/larrypeterson.
Editor’s note: This tribute was scheduled to be published alongside the LoToJa race story in the Fall magazine, but could not be finalized before deadline.
