The cycling community in Guyana is in mourning following the passing of former Olympian and UCI World Masters Champion Aubrey ‘Gibbyhead’ Gordon. He passed away at his home in Reading, Pennsylvania, on Monday, February 3.
A first viewing for Gordon was held yesterday from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Bean Funeral Home, located at 129 E, Lancaster Avenue, Shillington Park, PA 19607. His burial is scheduled for Saturday, February 15, with another viewing from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at 102-17 101st Avenue, Ozone Park, NY, before his interment at Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum.
Gordon, a prominent member of the Kaieteur Cycle Club prior to his migration, first represented Guyana on the world stage during the Los Angeles Summer Olympics in 1984. He later served as the flag bearer for Guyana at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Spain. Having celebrated his 67th birthday last November, Gordon was known for his pleasant demeanor and remarkable skills as a cyclist, making his loss deeply felt within the community.
Horace Burrowes, President of the Guyana Cycling Federation, expressed the organization’s condolences, stating: “The Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF) is deeply saddened to announce the sudden passing of our esteemed national cyclist Mr. Aubrey Gordon. A trailblazing Olympian, multi-World Championship medalist, and dedicated ambassador for the federation, his contributions to Guyanese cycling will never be forgotten. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his loved ones, friends, and the entire cycling community during this difficult time. Mr. Gordon’s remarkable legacy will continue to inspire future generations of cyclists. Rest in peace, dear friend.”
Victor Rutherford, Gordon’s mentor, coach, and relative based in Florida, expressed his shock at Gordon’s passing. Rutherford, a former national cycling champion himself, reminisced about Gordon’s early career, noting that despite their family ties, Gordon always rode for the Kaieteur Cycle Club instead of the Flying Stars Cycle Club, where Rutherford competed.
Rutherford recalled a memorable race in South Trinidad where Gordon faced off against Canadian cyclist Steve Brouwer, a notable competitor who had won a stage in the Tour de France. He described Gordon as having natural talent and a unique approach to cycling, often competing alongside athletes who treated the sport as a job. Despite some critiques regarding his physique, Rutherford emphasized Gordon’s hidden strength and ability.
During one particularly notable race, Gordon and Bauer broke away from the pack in the 2KM featured event, with Gordon ultimately claiming victory. The surprised Canadian coach later inquired about Gordon’s training regimen, highlighting Gordon’s deceptive power.
Over his illustrious cycling career, Gordon represented Guyana at numerous prestigious events, including the Pan Am Games (1975 in Mexico and 1979 in Puerto Rico), the Goodwill Games in Moscow in 1979, and both the 1984 and 1992 Summer Olympics. He achieved significant success in the United States, being crowned the National Masters Champion three times and earning gold at the UCI World Masters in Sydney, Australia in 2009, along with many other accolades.
After moving to the United States in 2008, Gordon continued to excel, winning multiple races, including the USA Masters Cycle Road Race in 2012 and a silver medal at the 2017 World Masters in Auckland, New Zealand. He remained a competitive force in the cycling community, often racing against notable athletes such as Kent Bostick, a two-time Gold Medalist at the Pan American Games.
Gordon’s contributions to cycling, both in Guyana and internationally, will be remembered fondly by his teammates and the broader cycling community. His legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of cyclists in Guyana and beyond.
