JOHANNESBURG, South Africa (BRAIN)—The cycling world was shocked by the death of Ryan Cox of Team Barloworld, who passed away Wednesday morning in South Africa.
Cannondale offers its sympathy and condolences to Cox's family and friends in this difficult time. The news came just three days after the team's glorious finish to the Tour de France and puts into perspective the fragility of human life.
The 28 year-old rider passed away during the early hours of Wednesday morning following complications suffered from a vascular lesion operation he underwent three weeks ago. Cox returned to South Africa to recuperate, but the cyclist's condition deteriorated on Monday.
He was rushed to the hospital by his family. After consulting with doctors, it was advised that Cox required an emergency operation to repair a bleeding artery.
Cox's team manager, Claudio Corti, based in Italy was terribly shocked at the news Wednesday morning.
Said a very emotional Corti, "Ryan was an extremely talented rider who excelled in the international cycling arena. He has represented his country with great skill and pride, and has always been looked upon as a great ambassador for South African cycling. On behalf of Team Barloworld, our deepest condolences are extended to the Cox family."
Cox was born April 9, 1979. He turned professional in 2001, and has been a rider for Team Barloworld since 2003. He has had seven victories to date, with his most significant wins including the South African National Road Championship in 2004 and 2005.
