For the last four years leading up to the London Olympics, BikeNZ based their track riders and staff at Admiral’s Court Motel owned by Mark and Shirley in Invercargill.
The motel became a second home for the bike team and Mark and Shirley treated the team like members of their family. The motel couple became part of the team, traveling to Melbourne to support the team at the world championships.
The riders and staff in the BikeNZ High Performance group were devastated with the news of the sudden passing of Mark Keen in May this year.
"The New Zealand Olympic men's pursuit cycling team has dedicated its bronze medal to a special friend.
For years, Bike New Zealand has based its track riders and staff at Invercargill's Admiral Court Motel, run by husband and wife team Mark and Shirley Keen.
But tragically, Mr Keen died suddenly in May this year - a death that has had a profound effect on the tight-knit unit.
Today rider Sam Bewley posted a message on Twitter dedicating his medal to his past friend.
Ms Keen says it's an amazing gesture.
“He did know them more personally, especially Mark, he would just go and chat to the guys and spend time with them,” she says.
Ms Keen says her husband would have been proud to hear of the team's accomplishment."
