_{Mark Satkiewicz, co-founder and race director at SBT GRVL and former president at Smartwool, passed away suddenly of what was described as a “cardiac incident” while on a ride this weekend near his home in Steamboat Springs, CO. He was 52.}

_{The industry found out about his sudden death in a post from SBT GRVL that read, in part:}

_{“It is with overwhelming sadness that we share the news of Mark Satkiewicz’s passing. Mark died of a cardiac incident while on a ride yesterday. Mark was an incredible husband, father and friend, and we are shocked and extremely saddened by the sudden loss of this beloved member of the gravel community.}

_{“We are immensely grateful for Mark’s vision for SBT GRVL – to create an inclusive community experience. His vision and leadership were instrumental in the event’s continued success.}

_{“His passion and drive to grow the sport of cycling will be missed everyday.}

_{Satkiewicz had a 10-year career at Samrtwool, rising from VP-sales when he joined in 2006 to president in 2009. In August 2016, he left Smartwool to become general manager of the Americas at Toms. He had previously spent 11 years at Nike, becoming footwear sales manager.}

_{Satkiewicz co-founded SBT GRVL, a gravel event in Steamboat Springs, CO, two years ago with Amy Parity and Ken Benesh.} 

Satkiewicz is survived by his wife, Amy, and their two daughters.