In the wake of today’s shock news that top South African MTB rider Burry Stander was killed in a car accident while training, many who participate in or follow the sport have expressed their disbelief and regret at the rider’s passing.
Stander, who was just 25 years of age, won the world under 23 title in 2009 and was fifth in the London Olympics. A strong competitor and a likeable person, his light has been extinguished far too quickly.
A memorial ride will be held next week, but in the meantime, what’s below is just a small number of the tributes which have been paid to him. Many more will doubtlessly be made in the days ahead:
Cycling South Africa:
“It is with great sadness and utter shock that Cycling South Africa confirms the tragic death today of our champion mountain bike rider, Burry Stander. Burry was out training when he was hit by a motor vehicle in Shelly Beach on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast. Details of the accident are still being investigated.
“On behalf of the Executive and Management Committee of Cycling South Africa, its affiliates, cyclists and the whole cycling and sporting fraternity I would like to extend our deepest sympathy and sincere condolences to his dear wife Cherise, and his loving parents Charles and Mandie, and their families on the tragic loss of their beloved Burry.
“Burry, who was the most successful mountain bike cyclist the country has ever seen, and whose promising career has been abruptly cut short, was a true icon and sporting rolemodel. Not only is this a loss to South African sport, but we have lost a true gentleman who through his professionalism, modesty and humility, constantly showing sheer guts, represented our country with great pride.
“We have been blessed to have had such an amazing and inspirational person represent South Africa and we will treasure every memory.
“We salute a true champion! Rest in peace Burry Stander.”
Kevin Vermaak, Absa Cape Epic founder:
“This is the saddest news I’ve received since I began my involvement in South African cycling 10 years ago. Burry was our brightest star. I am upset that the world has been deprived of a true legend in the making. Now we will never know just how great he was destined to be.
“My thoughts are with his wife Cherise and his family that have always been his biggest supporters.”
David Hyam, the Specialized S-Racing Team:
“It is with great sadness that we bid farewell to our friend and cycling legend Burry, who was tragically snatched away in the prime of his life while training in his home town of Kwazulu-Natal this afternoon.
“We have lost not only a friend, colleague and team-mate, but a true sportsman. He will long be remembered for his humility, his prowess and the gentle manner in which he conducted his life!
“Our heartfelt sympathies, thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Cherise, his parents, family and all who were privileged to know this gentle giant.
“Life is short, life is sweet but his legend will live on forever... Sincere condolences to all.”
Bike Pure:
“…[Burry] Stander was one of the very first mountain bikers to align with our organisation. He was an exemplary role model not only to cyclists in South Africa but cyclists worldwide. This news is a huge shock for the global cycling community.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to his wife Cherise and his family and friends at this difficult time.”