Cyclist dies during Unity bike race near Sigulda
A participant died during today's 36th Unity cycling race held in and around Sigulda, despite resuscitation efforts by fellow riders and medics. The Emergency Medical Service (NMPD) has confirmed the death.
A cyclist died today during the traditional 36th Unity bike race taking place in and around Sigulda. The event's organizing official, Igo Japiņš, confirmed the death to the LETA news agency.
According to Japiņš, the athlete felt unwell while riding uphill. Latvia's Emergency Medical Service (NMPD) received a call shortly before 3 p.m. reporting that a cyclist had fallen unconscious. Fellow participants immediately began administering first aid while consulting with an NMPD dispatcher over the phone.
An NMPD medical team was dispatched to the scene and took over resuscitation efforts from medics who were on duty at the event, continuing them for roughly another half hour. Despite the combined efforts of fellow cyclists and medical staff, the athlete could not be saved.
Cause of death not yet established
Japiņš noted that no medical examination has been carried out yet, so it is currently impossible to determine the exact cause of death. Organizers also said they had no prior knowledge of any health issues the athlete may have had.
"Doctors were with him immediately and did everything they could," Japiņš said, expressing regret that this time it was not enough to save the man's life.
