New South Wales man killed near Gympie identified as well-known cyclist Paul Ardill
A man who lost his life in a crash near Gympie on Saturday has been identified as a cyclist labelled the “elder statesman of ultra-endurance cycling” by a national magazine.
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A 78-year-old New South Wales man who tragically lost his life near Kilkivan on Saturday, May 15, has been identified as a well-known endurance cyclist.
Tributes are flowing for Paul Ardill, after he was involved in a crash on the Wide Bay Highway near Kilkivan.
Queensland Police said initial investigations indicated at about 10am a cyclist was travelling east approaching the intersection with Rossmore Road when the rider veered into the path of a vehicle travelling in the opposite direction.
Tragically Mr Ardill died at the scene.
The veteran rider has been described as the “elder statesman of ultra-endurance cycling” by Bicycling Australia.
Mr Ardill had been on a riding adventure in the days before the crash, with posts on his facebook page chronicling his journey along the Brisbane Valley and Kingaroy to Kilkivan rail trails.
Tributes are flowing for the rider from the New South Wales central coast, as news of his passing shocks the cycling community.
“Absolutely heart breaking news. Paul was an absolute cycling legend in my, and Jesse’s heart. Paul lined up for both the inaugural Race to the Rock AND the Indian Pacific Wheel Race,” Sarah Hammond wrote.
“Such a sad loss...it was always interesting to see where Paul was riding. Thoughts with his wife and family,” Kay Haarsma said.
Bicycling Australia also described Mr Ardill as “one of the nation‘s most loved and respected long distance cycling enthusiasts”.
Forensic Crash Unit is continuing to investigate the cause of the crash.
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