A constant fixture at the track. An outgoing and vibrant cyclist. A friend.
This past weekend, Jerry Shafer was killed while on a team ride near Woodinville in a head-on car collision. At age 65, Jerry was an active competitor and avid cyclist. Last year, Jerry began the “Share with Jerr” campaign to help raise funds for retinoblastoma research, a rare form of eye cancer his grandson Lance had been afflicted with and since recovered from when he was a toddler. A track-endurance specialist, Jerry set out to set the 100 mile track record for the 60-69 age category, a record which he set, and continued to also ride for the 24-hour distance record. The event was a huge success and raised $17,398 and was planned to happen again this summer. Jerry was training daily for the event. The MVA still plans to host and run the fundraiser this summer in his memory.
This kind of service and selflessness was a defining characteristic of Jerry. A two-time purple heart recipient for his service in Vietnam, he always sought opportunities to support others and provide encouragement. Despite his fierce competitive focus, Jerry would often be the first to give praise and congratulations to others.
Even when the holders couldn’t keep him upright, Jerry always had a smile on his face. In the words of Jerry, “Good on ya”
The Marymoor Veldrome Association invites you to celebrate Jerry’s life and legacy with us at the track this Wednesday, June 26th. Racing is free, but donations will be collected and will go towards the “Share with Jerr” fund. We have modified the race schedule to include Jerry’s favorite races, the Madison and the points – please see below for the list of events. Whether you’re racing or simply coming to watch, we hope we can honor Jerry’s memory by coming together and having a great night of racing and remembrance. Everyone is invited to bring their favorite photo of Jerry to be added to a collage we will be presenting to Jerry’s family that evening.
Read more about Jerry in the Seattle Times write-up.
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