Today is World Bicycle Day, as declared by the United Nations, with a fitting tie-in to the recent death of NBA star Bill Walton on May 27. Walton was many things—a first-round pick in 1974 who was a singular force for the Portland Trailblazers, the San Diego Clippers, and the Boston Celtics during his 14-year career; an unwavering Deadhead whose 6’11” frame was easy to spot in the first few rows at stage-center; and an Emmy Award winner for his broadcasting talents, having overcome stuttering as an adult. He was also an avid cyclist who rode an enormous, customized 70cm bike (the average size is in the low-50s), which he called his “medicine” for his two fused ankles, artificial knee, and new spine. He also suffered broken hands, feet, and legs, as well as fracturing his face and skull during his NBA career. Cycling, for a guy like that, is about the only thing available to stay in shape and enjoy nature at the same time. His passion was an inspiration to thousands of people who might have despaired over their injuries and avoided physical exercise. RIP Bill Walton, and Happy World Bicycle Day. Photo of Walton watching Dead & Co., the successor band to the Grateful Dead, at Wrigley Field in 2017, by Andy Sternberg via Fliker, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 DEED
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