Motorcycle crash claims athlete’s life

Garen Bloch (39) had four loves in his life; his life partner Michele Dix-Peek, his superbike, a blue Triumph Daytona 675, martial arts and Asha, his American Staffordshire.
Bloch’s untimely death in a freak accident on his beloved superbike in Polokwane on Saturday afternoon shook family and friends alike this week.
According to an eye-witness as well as police officials at the scene of the accident, who did not wish to be named, Bloch was riding his motorcycle in Veldspaat Street in the direction of the Louis Trichardt road when the accident occurred.
The eye-witness said the motorcycle appeared to become airborne and hit the pavement. Bloch flew through the air and hit a tree, dying on impact.
Bloch’s parents and siblings live in Israel and his funeral was held in Israel on Tuesday. A memorial service was due to be held in Polokwane last night (Wednesday night) at the time of going to print.

Bloch was originally from Johannesburg but had made his home in Polokwane for the past three years. He was an Olympic cycling medallist and had recently opened a martial arts dojo, Fight or Flight Dojo and was a qualified councillor at Meteffect Recovery Centre where he assisted many people to win their battles against alcohol and drugs, having fought the same battle himself.
Dix-Peek said Bloch was a deeply sensitive, extremely gentle soul whose caring for his fellowman knew no end.
“He was a generous person who was always willing to share his wisdom and knowledge. He had a deep sense of what is right and was always ready to stand up for what he believed,” she said.
Close friends of Bloch and Dix-Peek, Marno and Sarah Holloway Smith said his compassion, loyalty and love were what made the deepest impression on them. “He was happiest when he could give of himself in helping to build others. He had a brave heart and will be sorely missed,” they said.
Several former drug and alcohol addicts who did not wish to be identified attested that Bloch had been instrumental in their recovery.
“He helped me to admit my feelings and made me realise it was okay to have them. He was always so focused and would never give up when he set his mind to something,” one of them said.
“Faith keeps my boat afloat and hope keeps me rowing” was one of Bloch’s favourite quotes, the Holloway Smiths recalled.

Story & photo: KAREN VENTER
>>karen@observer.co.za