Michael Brown, a beloved member of the Canadian cycling community who brought the inaugural World Triathlon Multisport Festival to Penticton in 2017, has died. He was 51.
Triathlon Canada shared the news on its social media accounts on Monday, reporting that Brown suddenly died on Aug. 31.
"Michael’s immense dedication and passion to the sport was undeniable and felt by many," a post from the group reads. "The entire Triathlon Canada nation offers our deepest condolences to the family."
Brown was credited for organizing the Penticton-hosted World Triathlon Multisport Festival, a 10-day event in August 2017 that welcomed more than 3,000 athletes to the city.
He also owned and managed the Great White North Triathlon in Stony Plain, Alta. for several years.
According to his obituary, Brown was an avid sports fan who made regular trips to the Okanagan. His sporting achievements include playing rugby in Wales, cycling across the lava fields of Kona, Hawaii, and swimming the length of Penticton's Skaha Lake.
An online fundraiser in support of Brown's family has been launched. As of Sept. 10, it has raised close to $36,800.
"In honouring Michael’s memory, we carry forward the values he held dear — love, connection, and community," the fundraiser reads. "His reach was vast, and his impact was immeasurable."
Brown is survived by his wife and two children.
The fundraiser can be found here.
