May 14/10 13:02 pm - Tribute to Lorne (Ace) Atkinson

Posted by Editoress on 05/14/10
 

Yesterday's Globe and Mail had the following tribute to Lorne (Ace) Atkinson

He helped keep cycling alive in postwar Vancouver

Lorne (Ace) Atkinson's name is synonymous with cycling in Vancouver.

He raced at the Olympics, coached Canadian teams and organized international competitions in his hometown.

Atkinson was proprietor of a popular bike shop, where he outfitted generations of cyclists, from world-class racers to weekend sightseers.

Ace Cycles opened its doors in 1946 on West Broadway, where it remains a fixture of the Kitsilano neighbourhood. The owner lived in an apartment above a store in which he could often be seen doing repairs, his hands covered in oil and grease.

A fit, lean man with a ready smile, a racing cap perched on his head, Atkinson evangelized about the healthful benefits and sensual delights of two-wheeled transport.

Lorne Charles Atkinson was was born on June 8, 1921, in Vancouver, the son of a professional cyclist from Scotland, who became a coach in his new land.

Go to the Globe and Mail to read the entire article