GRIFFITH is mourning the sudden death of an "extraordinary" man.
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Kittchener Wilkinson died of a suspected heart attack on Sunday morning.
He was 37 and is survived by his wife, six-year-old daughter and three-year-old son.
Mr Wilkinson was a member of the Griffith Cycle Club.
Peter Budd, a member of the club, said the loss was devastating.
"Kittch had only been in our cycle club for a short period of time, together with his brother in law Greg. In that time his character has had such an influence on everyone," Mr Budd said.
He described him as fun-loving.
"Once you were in his company it didn't take long before you were laughing," Mr Budd said.
Mr Wilkinson had been competing in just his fourth race but had pulled out after one of the four laps as he was not feeling right. He was standing and talking to other club members when he suddenly collapsed.
Yesterday, club members rode from the funeral to the cemetery and then farewelled their friend by creating a guard of honour with their bikes.
They carried with them the number he wore in his final race, number 44.
"He certainly had a very big impact on our cycling community, which is why we wanted to do something special for him. Extraordinary people deserve something extraordinary done for them."
Mr Wilkinson had only competed in four races and won two.
He also won the club's C grade championship just three weeks ago.
Cycle club president Jason Minato said members were in shock.
"We are at a loss," he said.
"He's only been a member this year but he's certainly left his mark on everyone."