Australian snowboarder Alex Pullin is dead. The former world champion in cross discipline died in an accident during spear fishing near Palm Beach (Queensland) at the age of 32. The Australian association confirmed this on its website. “Our deepest sympathy goes to Alex’s family and his teammates and supporters,” wrote Snow Australia.
Numerous international media reported on the death. The British Guardian wrote that, according to the police, Pullin was passed out by a snorkeler near a reef on Wednesday morning (local time) and then lifeguards pulled him out of the water. Immediate resuscitation measures were initiated, but remained ineffective even after more than 45 minutes.
According to local media reports, Pullin with a weight belt as used in spearfishing was discovered underwater. Appropriate equipment was also nearby. The police are now investigating the exact circumstances of the death.
Pullin had won world championship gold in snowboard cross in 2011 and 2013 and world championship bronze in 2017. At the Winter X Games 2016, he also won silver in snowboard cross.
At the opening ceremony of the 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia, Pullin carried the flag of the Australian team, he had also participated in the 2010 games in Vancouver and 2018 in Pyeongchang. “We are sad and shocked. Alex was a loved member of our community and will be missed a lot,” wrote Snow Australia.
“An incredible athlete, a loved team member and a great role model. You will be sorely missed,” wrote the Australian Olympic team, of which Pullin was a member three times. Ian Chesterman, Australia’s chief de mission at the Winter Games, spoke of an “incredibly sad day for all of us.” Other athletes and commentators also condoled.
