South African mountain biker Stander died tragically on the 3rd after colliding with a minibus while training near his residence. He was only 25 years old.
Stander had represented South Africa in the Olympics in both 2008 and 2012, achieving a commendable fifth-place finish in London.
The South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee confirmed his death. The top athlete was struck by a minibus while training, and the vehicle fled the scene. The cause of the accident is still under investigation.
“I’m completely shocked,” said Sam, president of the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee. “Stander was talented, highly competitive, but also humble – a true gentleman.”
As one of South Africa’s most prominent cycling stars, Stander had risen to the ranks of the world’s elite riders. He had won world championships in the under-19 and under-23 categories.
Stander is the second notable South African cyclist to die in a traffic accident in recent years. In January 2011, female rider Swart tragically lost her life after colliding with a truck during training.