Remembering Hannah Henry: A Community's Tribute
In the serene setting of Tempe Town Lake, where vibrant canoes glided across sunlit waters, a somber gathering unfolded. Cyclists and friends came together to honor Hannah Henry, an NCAA triathlete and two-time national champion, whose life was tragically cut short in a hit-and-run incident in south Phoenix.
Hannah, a 26-year-old from Victoria, British Columbia, and a proud ASU alumnus, was struck by a driver under the influence of drugs, including fentanyl. The driver, Eric Hodge, admitted his actions and now faces serious charges, including reckless manslaughter.
The ceremony, intended to start at 11 a.m., saw emotions running high long before the official proceedings. Around 100 individuals gathered at North Shore Beach, many of whom had never met Hannah but were moved by her story. Friends and teammates shared heartfelt memories, blending laughter with tears.
Audrey Ernst, a close friend and former teammate, captured the sentiment beautifully: “I know wherever you are right now, you’re doing what you loved: riding a bike, because that’s what you loved. I will see Hannah every time I see a pink sunset, and I know that she’s here looking down on us and smiling.”
Hannah's impact extended beyond her athletic achievements. Nicole Welling, her former coach, described her as a dream athlete, not just for her talent but for her dedication and character. Hannah was a straight-A student, balancing her rigorous training with academic excellence.
Her athletic journey was impressive. Competing in the BC Summer Games and representing Canada on the international stage, Hannah's drive was unmatched. At ASU, she secured two individual NCAA championships and contributed to four team titles, inspiring her peers every step of the way.
Olivia Jenks, a former teammate, spoke of Hannah's tenacity: “She never quit. She would always be going 100%, and she pushed us to be better athletes and better women.”
Beyond sports, Hannah was a vibrant personality, a dedicated Taylor Swift fan, and someone who enjoyed filming TikTok dances with friends. Her zest for life was infectious, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she met.
As the community mourns, legal proceedings are underway. The family’s attorneys are pursuing a civil case while the district attorney handles the criminal charges. Co-counsel Kent Hammond emphasized the importance of justice, aiming for the maximum sentence for Hodge.
Hannah's legacy is one of inspiration and resilience. Her story is a poignant reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on a community. As they gathered by the lake, those who knew her reflected on a life lived fully, albeit too briefly.