The Indian Pacific Wheel Race in Australia has been cancelled after British cyclist Mike Hall was killed in a collision with a car near Canberra earlier today.
Hall was nearing the end of the 5,500km coast-to-coast race between Perth and Sydney when he was struck by a car on the Monaro Highway near Williamsdale at around 6:20am local time.
Emergency services were notified immediately but Hall died at the scene. Race organisers cancelled the race shortly after notifying Hall’s next of kin.
‘The Indian Pacific Wheel Race joins the family, loved ones and friends of Mike Hall in mourning his death,’ a statement from the organisers read.
‘Our deepest sympathies go to Mike’s family and to all those who knew him. Mike will be sorely missed.’
‘Incredible legacy’
‘Mike’s efforts in both raising money and the spirits of others were tremendous and he leaves an incredible legacy.
‘This tragedy is a great loss to the global cycling community.’
Hall had been lying in second place in the event behind leader Kristoff Allegaert and had been expected to reach Sydney later today.
Hall, 35, was regarded as one of the best endurance cyclists in the world, holding the records for the fastest completion of the American Trans Am and Tour Divide races.
He was also the organiser of the European Transcontinental race. It is unclear whether the Transcon, scheduled to be held later this year, will go ahead.
• A JustGiving page has been set up to help support Mike’s family during this difficult time. To support the appeal, go to justgiving.com/cro