20-year-old Mark Groeneveld of the Canadian continental team XSpeed United Continental died unexpectedly in Hong Kong. The rider collapsed the day after the race and could not be resuscitated.
There is no definitive answer yet, but it seems very likely that the rider from Enkhuizen in North Holland died of heart failure. An autopsy has yet to be performed.
The team posted a statement via Facebook in which they indicated that they were extremely moved by what happened. “Mark was an incredible person and a beloved member of our team,” writes X-Speed United. “He had a remarkable spirit, always willing to lend a hand behind the scenes with his infectious smile and warm nature. His presence brightened our days, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.”
Just last month, our compatriot Nathan Van Hooydonck became unwell while he was behind the wheel of his car. Thanks to a quick intervention, Van Hooydonck could be successfully resuscitated. In the meantime, he had a defibrillator implanted and had to put an end to his professional cycling career.
(gvdl)
