Spectator Judith Garrett, 29, from Prudhoe in Northumberland, has died as a result of head injuries sustained at the third round of the Borderline Events UK DH series in Llangollen, Wales.
On 31st August, during race runs at the event, a rider crashed and his bike collided with Ms Garrett. Medical staff were immediately on the scene, and the Welsh Ambulance Service responded with two air ambulances, one of which flew Judith to the University Hospital of North Staffordshire with serious and potentially life-threatening injuries. Unfortunately a few hours after being airlifted to hospital, Ms Garrett died. The pathologist gave her provisional cause of death as major traumatic head injury.
The Llangollen track is well known as one of the steepest, most technical courses in the UK. The popular venue is used almost every year for National races, and is a regular feature of the UK DH series.
British Cycling has stated that spectator and competitor safety is their highest priority; they have a track inspection before racing to assess and change any risks or possible safety issues. A full investigation has begun into the incident.
This tragedy will sadden the entire cycling community and we extend our deepest sympathies Ms Garrett’s family and friends.
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Christ, thats horrendous. Thoughts are with family and friends.
The rider must be devastated too.
I was thinking that too…
imagine finding out that you’d accidentally killed someone!
Terrible news. My sympathies to all who knew Ms. Garrett.
Devastating for the spectator’s family and friends as well as for the rider.
As above, awful accident and thoughts to the family and riders.