Scottish Cycling confirmed on Tuesday night that Wardell had died in his sleep. Wardell had appeared on BBC Scotland’s The Nine program on Monday night to talk about his victory on Sunday. “We are devastated to confirm the news that international mountain biker and former employee, Rab Wardell, has passed away today,” a statement from Scottish Cycling said. “We have very little information at this stage, but we send our love and support to his family, friends and all those in our community who knew him. We ask that you respect the privacy of Rab’s family at this incredibly sad time.” Wardell’s partner, track cyclist Katie Archibald, tweeted on Wednesday that she had suffered a “cardiac arrest” on Tuesday morning. “I think you have heard that Rab died yesterday morning,” wrote Archibald, “I still don’t understand what happened. if this is true; why he was being taken now – so healthy and happy. “He went into cardiac arrest while we were lying in bed. I tried and tried, and the medics arrived within minutes, but his heart stopped and they couldn’t bring him back.” Wardell won the elite men’s title at Kirroughtree Forest in Dumfries & Galloway on Sunday, overcoming several punctures to win in the final round. His victory was described as a “display of incredible endurance” by British Cycling. Organizers of Sunday’s race, the Scottish Cross Country Association, paid their own tribute to Wardell on Facebook. “He will be truly missed by our community and his determination, talent and friendship will remain in all our hearts and memories,” a statement said. “I’m sure more eloquent words will be written than many other than RIP Rab. Our champion, our inspiration, our friend.” Six-time Olympic gold medalist Sir Chris Hoy tweeted: “Can’t believe this. Absolutely heartbreaking. Rest in peace Rab.” Wardell, who lived with Archibald in Glasgow, had been racing mountain bikes since he was a teenager but only turned pro earlier this year.
