Cyclist dies during Latvia’s Vienības cycling event

A participant died during the Vienības cycling event in Sigulda on Sunday, LSM reported, citing confirmation from the Emergency Medical Service to the LETA news agency.

The service received a call shortly before 3 p.m. that a cyclist had fallen unconscious. Bystanders began providing first aid with guidance from an emergency dispatcher.

An emergency medical crew was sent to the scene and took over resuscitation efforts from medical staff on duty at the event. They continued for about 30 minutes, but the cyclist could not be saved.

Igo Japiņš, who is responsible for organising the event, told LETA that the participant became ill while cycling uphill. He said a medical examination had not yet been carried out, so the cause of death could not be determined.

Japiņš said organisers had not previously known of any possible health problems affecting the athlete. He expressed regret, saying doctors had reached the cyclist immediately and done everything they could.

The traditional Vienības cycling event was being held for the 36th time in Sigulda and its surroundings.