"John Bell was a cardiac surgeon and cycling enthusiast who rode with a cohort of fellow cyclists throughout central Virginia including an annual three-day ride on the Blue Ridge Parkway called the Tour du Blue Ridge. John was a participant in the early Storming of Thunder Ridge ride in the 90’s and when the ride was temporarily discontinued, John assumed responsibility for the event as race director of the Challenge of Thunder Ridge under the auspices of The Heart of Virginia Bike Festival. John’s goal was to promote good health and safe riding for all ages. Free helmets were given to young riders, proceeds raised from the ride were donated to the Mended Hearts which is a local nonprofit organization to advocate for cardiac surgery patients and many of the volunteers were employees of the cardiothoracic and cardiology clinics.
John tragically lost his life in on May 26th, 2009 in a cycling accident but his legacy lives on. Now, another chapter of John’s story is being written with the announcement that beginning in 2022 the YMCA’s, Storming of Thunder Ridge will have a sub title: The John Bell Memorial Ride.
This title is given in recognition of John’s contributions to the Storming of Thunder Ridge as one of the original race directors, for all he did in our community as a skilled cardiothoracic surgeon and for being a loving husband to his wife Michelle and his two children Tatum and Conner. It will also be in memory and honor of all those cyclists who have enjoyed the beauty and challenge of cycling in Central Virginia." - Dr. Bob Brennan
