[newleaf150]

British cycle-touring couple out living the dream found their end in Thailand where they were hit and killed by a pickup truck. They apparently left Britain in July of 2011 and had cycled through Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia and China.

http://world.foxnews.mobi/quickPage.html?page=26264&external=1970578.proteus .fma&pageNum=-1

I read in another story that the driver accused of hitting them has told police he did so while trying to retrieve a hat from the floor of his vehicle. Sounds sadly familiar.

As terrible as this accident is, the underlying danger is one faced by anyone who chooses to ride a bicycle on a public road: drivers the world over pay less attention than they should.

I appreciate that this couple didn't let the danger or fear of the unknown stop them from doing what they loved. So sad to see their ride cut tragically short. Still better to die doing what you love than to let fear keep you rooted to the couch, seeing the broader world only by TV. I salute them.

Stay safe out there, wherever and for however far today's ride may take you.

[Xela]

Sad. Saw this yesterday on Joe Kurmaskie's Facebook page where he also wrote,

Very sad to hear about Peter and Mary's deaths. Peter emailed me before the start of their adventure to ask for tips and advice and just to say he'd read my books and... they were out there living their dream. I didn't know them but for the few email exchanges but it hurts my heart that their journey has ended this way. Condolences to all their loved ones.

[Andy2302]

Just heard about this on the radio today. Tragic. But they were doing what they dreamed of. I salute them.