From Andy and Carol Lanes

Thoughts from Vail,

It is thru a profound sadness that we fight to share some happy thoughts with the community that is the legacy of Ricardo Presnell. I have known Ric since playing opposite him in an ultimate Frisbee game in Middlebury in 1977, which neither of us was going to lose; we were instant friends.

In Denver, in the 80’s, he met my wife Carol, still the only person I know who could call him Ricky without bearing that scowl of disdain that we all would occasionally see when we weren’t up for something. Ricardo’s career took him away from Denver, but not us, or anyone else anywhere on the planet with whom he felt a connection.

In all the time since, we were treated to at least annual calls announcing a visit, trip to Moab, trip to Fruita, rendezvous at he and Caroline’s place for canyon adventures, something. I remember as if it was yesterday researching our first foray to what is now the mountain biking mecca of Fruita. In the early 90’s, however, it was the realm of select few and Ricardo was on it. Hell, one of the big loops that Troy & Co had linked together, even had a thirty foot rappel in the middle of ride and was billed as an all day epic. There was no discussion that would be done first.

I realize it is rhetorical but I still have to say that Ricardo did not participate in any of these endeavors to satiate a need for danger. His motivation was always how to most and best experience his surroundings and how many of us he could bring along for the ride. We are this community because whether we were the best, well generally second best in his company or bringing up the rear, we all are willing to make the effort; that is all he asked. The current adventure is to gather shortly and celebrate an extraordinary individual who’s life we are all the better for participating in. I can’t wait…think I’ll go for a skin and discuss it with him.

Andy & Carol Lanes, Vail CO.