Everyone at Kestrel and all of ASI wish to extend their condolences to the Larsen family on this tragic loss.
Announcement as posted on XTRI.com...
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A married father to five children and multisport business entrepreneur with a professional sports background that spanned from road cycling, MTB, Track and Cyclocross to triathlon, Steve Larsen passed away on Tuesday evening in the midst of a track workout. It is reported that he collapsed on the track and CPR was administered, but he could not be revived.
Steve had retired from his professional career as a triathlete in 2003, and had run his own bike shop business before moving on to commercial real estate. However, he returned to the pro ranks in 2008, placing 3rd overall at the Vineman 70.3 and posting a 9:19 in Kona. But instead, Steve felt his greatest athletic accomplishment in 2008 was raising funds for Challenged Athletes Foundation Operation Rebound at the CA 70.3.
In January of 2009, furthering his return to his passion, Steve began a new business, WorldTri.com, and became a regular contributor to Xtri.com with his product reviews. Talking to Steve about the business though, one got the immediate impression that this was meant less as a pure business venture, and more as an opportunity to share his great wealth of knowledge and love for triathlon to all people, from the beginner athlete to the elite. This passion and down-to-earth approach were evident in his articles and in any contact people had with Steve.
“Steve was a personal friend, a retail partner of Fuel Belt's and a sponsored athlete throughout his triathlon pro career,” said Fuel Belt Founder and President Vinu Malik. “I can tell you first-hand that there was nobody more professional, grounded and hard working than Steve. This is really sad news and a reminder to value the most important people in our lives as if there is no tomorrow.”
Steve had his professional start as a road cyclist, riding alongside Lance Armstrong on Team Motorola in the early 90s. From there he made the switch to MTB and was the NORBA champion in 1998 and 2000. He then made the switch to triathlon, and used his crushing bike speed to help him win Ironman Lake Placid in 2001 in his first attempt at the distance. Competing in Kona for the first time that year, he held the lead until mile 13 of the run. His best performance there earned him 9th place overall.
But to Steve, all of that was far less important than his role as husband to wife Carrie, and father to five beautiful children.
Smart, kind and immensely talented, Steve Larsen will be sorely missed.
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