An unsupported bike race across Australia has been cancelled after British ultra-distance star Mike Hall was hit and killed by a car on the outskirts of Canberra.
Hall died at the scene following a collision with a car on the Monaro Highway before 6.30am on Friday. The 35-year-old was in second place at the time.
Race organisers said in a statement: “Mike revelled in the spirit and adventure of ultra-endurance cycling events.
“Mike’s efforts in both raising money and the spirits of others were tremendous and he leaves an incredible legacy.”
The sportsman had been competing in the inaugural Indian Pacific Wheel Race which covers 5,500 kilometres from Perth to Sydney.
“The Indian Pacific Wheel Race has been cancelled with immediate effect in light of this morning’s tragic incident,” race organisers said earlier on Friday. “This is a difficult time for everyone involved, along with their families, and their wellbeing is our primary concern.”
The organisers said they would cooperate fully with official investigations and “intend to undertake a detailed investigation of our own”.
Hall was one of the best ultra-distance riders in the world, having previously won the Trans Am bike race across the US and the Tour Divide traversing the Rocky Mountains from Canada to Mexico.
The race started on 18 March in Fremantle and the leading rider, Belgium’s Kristof Allegaert, had been expected to reach the finish line at the Sydney Opera House later on Friday. About 70 riders from around the world started the race.
The Indian Pacific Wheel Race was organised by Australia’s 2015 Trans Am winner Jesse Carlsson and was being closely followed by fans across the world as the leaders approached Sydney.
The driver of the car involved in the incident is assisting police with their inquiries. Crash investigators are piecing together the circumstances surrounding the collision and a report will be prepared for the coroner.
