The South African cycling fraternity was in mourning today after a cyclist died after being struck by an unidentified vehicle while apparently warming up for the Berge en Dale road race near Krugersdorp in Gauteng.
In a tragic incident, before the start of the race this morning, 41-year-old Nino Oppel of Johannesburg was struck from behind as he was heading to the start from Pinehaven towards Roodepoort. The vehicle did not stop.
Riders in action during last year’s Bestmed Berge en Dale Championship. Photo: Supplied
Although medics reached the rider within less than a minute of the incident and tried to stabilise him, he was declared dead at Pinehaven Hospital about five hours later.
ASG Events race director Darren Herbst said they sent their condolences to the family.
“This is a very difficult situation for his family and we offer our heartfelt support to them,” he said.
“We make every effort to secure the safety of the riders at all our events. This is very tragic.”
