Tributes have poured in for a "kind-hearted" cyclist after he was tragically killed during a training accident. Shane O'Brien, 16, passed away on Tuesday after he went out for a training ride in Ballygalane, Ireland.
According to reports, he struck a parked lorry in Ballygalane and despite medical attention was pronounced dead at the scene. Gardaí, the national police force, are now appealing for witnesses.
O'Brien was a talented racer on the books of Camsmajaco, a British feeder squad that launched at the start of the year and is paired with WorldTour team Netcompany-Ineos (formerly known as Team Sky).
Team Statement
A statement from Camsmajaco read: "It is with immense sadness that we report the death of Shane O'Brien, a first-year junior with us. Shane tragically died yesterday in a training accident in Ireland. Shane was a talented rider who had a bright future ahead of him, and was a kind-hearted, gentle and positive young man. We were honoured to have him as a member of the team and he will be forever in our hearts. Our thoughts at this devastating time are with his family, friends, teammates and all who were lucky enough to know him."
Brother's Race
Shane's brother, Liam, was racing in the Giro Next Gen - one of the biggest races on the calendar - when he heard the news. The race said: "Our thoughts and prayers go to Liam O'Brien and his family, as Shane O'Brien, Liam's brother passed away yesterday. Liam has left the race, to be with his family in this time of mourning. The #GiroNextGen sends their love and support in these difficult times."
Lidl-Trek, Liam's team, also released a statement: "We are devastated to learn of the tragic passing of Shane O'Brien. Everyone at Lidl-Trek extends their heartfelt condolences to our Future Racing rider Liam O'Brien and his family following the tragic loss of his brother, Shane. Our thoughts are with Shane's family, friends, teammates, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. May Shane rest in peace."
