My sister, Laurel Luedtke, was tragically hit by a car while biking on September 14, 2023, in the city of Boulder. She is an avid Boulder-based cyclist and mechanic who has fallen in love with all things cycling for most of her life. Because she was hit by this car, her passion and profession have come to an abrupt halt.

Laurel is currently resting at home after getting back from the hospital. She has multiple medical appointments over the next few weeks for her injuries sustained. Her injuries are significant to multiple parts of her body and currently she is unable to walk or stand without assistance.

Funds raised will help to cover Laurel’s medical expenses including the upcoming physical therapy and temporary lifestyle adjustments she will need to make. The incident took place at the intersection of Broadway and Balsam as Laurel and fellow rider/mechanic Eric were 1.28 miles into their morning ride to Chapman. Laurel and Eric were traveling through the bike lane West on Balsam and entered the intersection during a green light, the driver was oncoming taking a left-hand turn to travel North on Broadway when Laurel was struck, and Eric was narrowly missed. The driver did stop, and multiple witnesses stopped to render aid. Unfortunately, the driver is under-insured which forces the Luedtke's to deal with the medical expenses out-of-pocket. On top of all of that, her beloved Lauf (featured in the cover photo) is totaled.

Laurel is an avid cyclist, racer, and bike commuter. If you don't know her from Colorado gravel, cyclocross, or road events, you might have seen her on the podium this year at Ned Gravel, FoCo Fondo, or the Sunshine Hill Climb. Laurel is also a member of Boulder Divas Cycling, which she thoroughly enjoys.

(Laurel is on the left, in 2nd place)

You might have run into her at Boulder Bicycle Works where she eagerly gets your bike in top shape for a race or maybe she built you a custom set of wheels! She has always has put the need of those above her own and has an evident love for teaching those who want to learn. Laurel constantly made time for anyone who needed assistance, from supporting friends through their first cycling events or working early or late to help customers with last minute bike adjustments before events.

Laurel is facing a challenging road to recovery and will be unable to work or bike for the foreseeable future. We know she will be tirelessly working hard to get back on her feet so that she can get back to pedaling up the nearest climb, but in the meantime please help send her some love to get through this tough time.