Dear Vašek,
The news that you had physically left this world was crushing and painfully paralysing for us all. Unable to come to terms with it, I got on my bike today and rode my favourite route to Braník. As I passed our clubhouse, you were just opening the door. You smiled, climbed onto your bike and joined me.
We crossed the bridge and followed the other bank of the Vltava, as we had so often before, towards Dobřichovice, Karlík and Karlštejn. Once again you were patient with my slower pace. You eased off on the hills and told me about those you loved above all else: your family, your son and your beloved wife Zuzka. Then you spoke about your work as a lawyer, sharing a few bitterly funny stories about the power of money and about proud, vain people. You spoke with perspective, without judging them. Finally, we talked about sport and the trips we were planning together.
Suddenly the sun shone brightly, and I had to wipe my tear-filled eyes… In that brief moment I realised that we would never make those planned journeys.
I realised how much we would all miss your smiling, easy-going face, your wonderful sense of humour, kindness, tolerance, perspective and understanding of everything human. You had so much left to give.
You were always a wonderful runner, Vašek, but you have run ahead of us far too soon. Surely you are waiting somewhere for the slower ones, knowing that one day we will catch up. Put the coffee on in the meantime :-).
Until then, you will still be with us: swimming, running, cycling, climbing rocks and sitting around campfires. You will be there for every success and every mishap, sharing our feelings. We will share our joy and tears with you for one simple reason. You left an indelible mark not only on the bank of our beautiful river, but above all in our hearts and souls.
Not long ago you carried a burning torch in tribute to Mr Nicek. Now let us all carry a torch in our hearts and souls, with love and respect for our wonderful friend — for you, Vašek.
On behalf of all the swimmers, cold-water swimmers, runners and cyclists, all the sportspeople and everyone who loves you — and especially all the deeply saddened castaways who miss their Friday. (Pátek means “Friday” in Czech.)
Mirek
