The North American cycling community mourns the passing of longtime mentor and benefactor to cyclists Fred Mengoni. The Italian-American died February 2. He was 94. His love for cycling extended across decades, and was instrumental in kick-starting careers of several top-level pros as well as provided early funding for what eventually became USA Cycling. He was admitted to the U.S Bicycling Hall of Fame in 1994.

George Hincapie, who received early backing from Mengoni, wrote on Twitter: “Thank you for all you did for me, cycling in NY and in the USA. You will be missed.” Condolences ranged from former riders such as Steve Bauer to former Giro d’Italia director Angelo Zomegnan. Mengoni was an enthusiastic cycling fan and benefactor whose influence reached across oceans and generations. He helped nurture careers from such riders as Bauer and Hincapie to Greg LeMond and Doug Shapiro.