Magnus was a talented and accomplished young man born in California and raised in Colorado. His academic excellence, with a 4.2 GPA, was matched only by his passion for outdoor activities such as cycling, skiing, and hiking with his dogs. His cycling prowess was evident in his notable victories, including the 2021 Junior 17-18 Cyclocross National Championship. He represented the U.S. and the Boulder community internationally and continued to race with the USA Cycling National Team. Magnus's vibrant energy, contagious smile, and ability to bring joy to any gathering were genuinely inspiring. His spot on the U.S. Mountain Bike World Championship team in the spring and summer of 2023 marked a new chapter in his cycling career, a testament to his dedication and talent.
On July 29th, 2023, at 12:28 p.m., Magnus was in the final stages of one of his last training rides before representing Team USA at the World Mountain Bike Championships in Glasgow, Scotland. Tragically, his life was cut short in a crash that could have been avoided. He was hit and killed by a driver from behind while wearing his USA National Team Kit, just 15 minutes from home. This loss was a tragedy and a stark reminder of the urgent need for better road safety measures.
His passing has left a void in the cycling community, a gap that cannot be filled. Magnus's untimely death leaves behind the question of the potential he could have fulfilled, which will forever weigh on the hearts of his parents. Although still young, he was on the path to becoming a man, and his growth was evident daily. His passing has created a void, a sense of unrealized potential, and a future that will never be realized. The impact of his loss is felt not just by his family but by the worldwide cycling community, a community that, now more than ever, needs to come together to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The tragic and avoidable loss of Magnus White, a promising cyclist from the U.S., demands immediate action. It is time to prompt our leaders to take quick and decisive measures to prevent such senseless crashes involving cyclists and pedestrians on our roads.
Join us on August 11th, 2024, for a ride in honor of Magnus. We aim to make this the largest advocacy bike ride in the nation's history, advocating for the urgent need for better laws and improved infrastructure to protect cyclists and other vulnerable road users. Let's be the new voice for change and make our roads safer for everyone.
There will also be a virtual ride of 13.5 miles and a memorial walk, the route of which will be announced. The ride and walk require registration, which is free with a suggested donation.
After the ride, the Ride for Your Life Rally will start at 12:30 p.m. The rally aims to advocate for better laws and improved infrastructure to protect cyclists and vulnerable road users. Guest speakers will include Colorado Governor Jared Polis, Trek President John Burke, senior leadership from USA Cycling, and senior U.S. Department of Transportation officials.