Cape Town, Feb. 2018 – A passing vehicle hit famous cyclist and rugby operations manager Nino Oppel outside Krugersdorp on Saturday ahead of the Berge en Dale cycling event.
“In a tragic incident, before the start of the race this morning, 41-year-old Nino Oppel of Johannesburg was struck from behind by an unidentified vehicle,” a statement from the race organizers said. “The vehicle did not stop.
Krugersdorp’s unfinished race
Apparently, the horrifying accident occurred as Oppel was heading to the 107-kilometer race at the Cradlestone Mall which started in Pinehaven and ended in Roodepoort.
Sadly, even though paramedics arrived within a few minutes, their tries seemed to be unsuccessful. They declared him dead a few hours later when at the Pinehaven Hospital.
“This is a very difficult situation for his family and we offer our heartfelt support to them. We make every effort to secure the safety of the riders at all our events. This is very tragic,” Darren Herbst, ASG Events race director, said while sending his condolences to the victim’s family.
“We are terribly shocked by Nino’s death,” said Colquhoun, the spokesman for SA Rugby.
Another weekend of great results at @BergeEnDale_ with @JacquesFullard winning the Vets 40+, @Jo_vdw picking up 3rd in the Elite Ladies race and @MC_Potgieter getting 3rd in the Vets 30+. Thanks to our sponsors @SandtonCity @NelsonMandelaSq @CushWake @VibroBricks @DoolhofWines ? pic.twitter.com/NWwJWlwD7k
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