SNS GroupMountain biker Rab Wardell has died just days after winning the Scottish Championship.
The 37-year-old died in his sleep on Tuesday, August 23.
He had just won the elite men’s title at the Scottish MTB XC Championships in Dumfries and Galloway at the weekend.
Mr Wardell had appeared on BBC Scotland’s The Nine programme on Monday evening.
The cyclist, who lived in Glasgow, told the BBC of how he had overcome three punctures to win the race.
“To be honest it was a bit of a disaster,” he told the programme.
“But just have to keep on trucking and and keep racing.
“I guess I still felt confident that I’d be able to catch the leaders and win so yeah, just gave it my best shot. What more can you do?”
In a statement, Scottish Cycling said that they had “very little information” about his death.
“We are devastated to confirm the news that international mountain biker & former employee, Rab Wardell, has passed away today,” they said.
“We have very little information at this stage, but we send our love & support to his family, friends & all those in our community who knew him.
“We ask that you respect Rab’s family’s privacy at this incredibly sad time.”
On their Facebook page, SXC (Scottish Cross Country Association) said: “We have the saddest news to share with you all today.
“We are devastated to relay to you the tragic news that our friend, our champion Rab Wardell has died overnight.
“Our deepest sympathy to his friends, family and loved ones. He will be truly missed by our community and his determination, talent and friendship will live on in all our hearts and memories.
“I’m sure more eloquent words will be written by many but RIP Rab. Our champion, our inspiration, our friend.”
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