Wednesday, November 21, 2012

A Rider Down....

Your full name  was Sthithaprajna Garapaty, and because I was such a clutz with pronounciation, you allowed me to get away with calling you "Sith."  I knew that you loved riding, and that you were particularly fascinated with your Sherpa.  I knew that you were a computer geek, as I called you and that you had gone to school in Atlanta.  I knew that you  loved hangliding, and that you managed to soar for a few days in Southern Mexico.

I knew that you looked after the details that the rest of us forgot, as when you made sure that the bikes were secured and tied down on the Baja Ferry, before the hurricane hit.  I knew that you weren't afraid to tell someone that their riding boots were high, and needed to be outside of the shared room.  I saw that you spoke Spanish very well, and that you took the time to communicate with people, and to understand what they were about.  I saw that you were sensitive to folks' abilities, as when you stayed behind with the two old codgers when we climbed the volcano, when you could have been up front with the young backpackers.    I know that you loved and respected your family because you made the time at the end of each day to call them and let them know where you were in your travels. You thought about your family, and shopped for a birthday present for your brother in San Francisco.  You were proud of your Indian heritage, and spoke frequently about returning to Hyderbad.

We only rode together through a couple of countries and down a few winding roads, two very different guys with a love of riding and a love of travelling.  I knew that you  were looking forward to visiting with your friend in Costa Rica, and both of us felt lucky to get the last two places on the Stahlratte's voyage  through the San Blas island to Cartegena.   When you did not make the rendezvous, I thought you had changed your plans.....

Your brother has informed me that you passed away on the beaches of Costa Rica, and I am very sorry that such a tragedy ended your young life.  













Rest in Peace, my friend....

6 comments:

  1. Oh my god Dave, that is so sad. Do you know what happened? How old a fellow was he? Makes you reflect on your own life doesn't it. Ride on my friend and keep us posted.....

    ReplyDelete
  2. Dave I'm so sorry to hear that your riding buddy has passed away. I could tell from this post and previous ones how much your time with him meant to you. Life passes by so quickly. I guess a tragedy such as this reminds us to live life to the fullest. I am glad you are fulfilling one of your dreams. From what you said it sounds like "Sith" was as well. Take care of yourself and ride safely.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Truly sorry to hear about this, Dave. Your tribute was moving and, as usual, extremely well written. I guess we can only hope that if reincarnation was in his cards, this good soul has gotten a ticket to the front of the line. Take extra care, Dave. Still got a need to meet up with you next year and yak about adventures past.
      Doug

      Delete
  3. Dave

    Its heidi and andre from montana. We met you and Sith at the d and d brewery in Honduras. I cant believe this. What happened? You two made a great riding duo. Im so sorry to hear rhis news. I have a couple of great pictures of you two. Our time at the d and d wouldnt have been the same if we had not metthe both of you. Stay safe.
    Heidi

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Heidi and Andre
      I was worried about Sith, as he usually was online in the evenings. We had agreed to share a bunk on the Stahlratte adventure. After arriving in Cartegena, I received an email from his brother, who was using Sith's mail. There were not any details of the accident. I would really appreciate any pictures that you have of our waterfall tour and time together. Thank you for following along, and I hope you two are adjusting to a Montana winter..

      Delete
  4. Well written Dave - didn't know the fellow, but it is always sad if someone passes.

    ReplyDelete

Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.