from Fort worth Star-Telegram (full article)

By TERRY LEE GOODRICH
Star-Telegram Staff Writer

As a high school freshman, Ivan Mukasa ran to school — seven miles — with his book bag on his back.

In time, the impoverished youth from Uganda graduated to a junk bike for his treks from Euless to Birdville High School in North Richland Hills.

Then came the day some friends bought him a new bike.

“That bike meant everything to him,” said retiree Tom Hadley of Euless, who informally adopted Mukasa.

Mukasa, 18, graduated with honors this year. He earned the title of 2007 Junior Open Texas Road Race Champion. Two weeks ago, he moved to Wichita Falls to attend Midwestern State University, planning a medical career.

But on Aug. 24, he drowned in his apartment swimming pool.