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Memorial sculpture honors late cyclist Tim Watkins

Posted at 9:43 PM, Nov 17, 2018
and last updated 2018-11-18 13:33:11-05

COLORADO SPRINGS –
It’s been more than a year since cyclist Tim Watkins was shot and killed on Mount Herman.
On Saturday, his family and friends gathered in Palmer Park to celebrate his memory.

His brother David Watkins was grateful for the show of support.

“Mostly i’d like to say thanks to everybody for coming,” he told the crowd as he teared up.
“It’s real important to have this, so awesome that you’re here.”

It’s still a mystery who shot and killed Watkins.

“There still isn’t closure in regards to some of the events around that time,” a friend said.

But those who knew him are finding some comfort in this commemorative sculpture unveiled at the memorial ceremony.
it includes a replica of the bike he rode, symbolizing his love of trails and reminding folks to carry on his legacy of respecting them.

“If you reach down and pick up a piece of garbage somewhere, think of Tim,” David told the crowd.
“You’re helping Tim out because he was always about cleaning trails and cleaning places up and making it safe to ride for the other people.”

The base stone actually used to block the entrance to a nearby trail but once it opened back up, it found its home back at Palmer Lake.

“Forever his public memorial will be tied to the re-opening of a public trail,” a friend added.

The hawk perched on top of the structure serves as a sign that he’s still watching over his beloved town.

Saturday would’ve also been Tim’s 62nd birthday.