I first met D'Arcy at a MTB race that was called the Brodie Test of Metal before it morphed into the Squamish Test of Metal back in the early 1990's at Alice Lake. We were both racing in the beginner category in the early days of MTB racing and I remember him telling me how to catch the guy that was leading as we duked it out for 2nd.

We didn't know each other at the time but riding a lap together was enough to form a bond. D'Arcy was spot on with his assessment on how to beat the roadie that was leading and I did my best to follow through on his insight.

A couple years later when I moved to Whistler, D'Arcy was a regular on our group rides. If there is one memory that resonates it is a guy that was full of passion, always positive and always looking to ride harder. He was also one of the best technical uphill riders I've ever seen.

By this time it was mid-90's and we were riding hardtails with 45psi semi slick tires. I will always remember the stuff I saw him ride...the inner strength and technical skill was impressive and it is still impressive today. In fact, I've told stories on the trails with my two boys which I hope he chuckles about now in heaven!

I spoke with Chad Miles tonight about D'Arcy's passing and we both had similar stories and similar thoughts about wishing we knew him better...

Both of us said we considered him a friend.