A 55-year-old cyclist has died following an accident at a London circuit race last month.
The rider, named by British Cycling as Paul Atkinson, was involved in an incident during the Full Gas event on March 22 at the Lee Valley VeloPark. The crash took place during the Category 3/4 race, which was part of the Spring Rumble 2, the second event in the series.
It is believed the collision occurred mid-race, and Atkinson was later transferred to the hospital, where he passed away.
Tony Gibb, organizer of Full Gas, expressed deep sadness in a statement: “We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of a rider following an accident during the Spring Rumble 2. Our thoughts are with the rider’s family, friends, and teammates. This tragic loss will have a profound impact on the entire cycling community, and we ask for respect and privacy for those affected during this difficult time.”
Gibb also thanked the local ambulance, police services, and the Lee Valley VeloPark staff for their swift and dedicated response.
British Cycling confirmed that a full investigation into the incident is underway, led by the national governing body. They added, “Paul was highly regarded within the cycling community, and he will be missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police stated that officers were called to the Olympic Village, Lee Valley, at 11:37 AM on March 22 after reports of an unresponsive man. The London Ambulance Service treated Atkinson at the scene before transferring him to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Police confirmed that the incident is not being treated as suspicious.
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