On Sunday 29 October amateur cyclist Jesus Alejandro “Alex” Olvera died while competing in the 160 kilometers long Gran Fondo Nairo Quintana Mexico race after crashing and falling into a ravine, according to San Luis Potosi authorities.

Olvera (Arvak Team) was an experienced cyclist, having participated in many cycling events, including GFNY Oaxaca where he placed 4th in the 50-54 men’s category. Unfortunately, on Sunday he collided with two other cyclists 39 kilometers into the race, with Olvera loosing control and riding off pavement down a ravine. Emergency medical services, including an intensive care doctor, were quick to arrive, but found no vital signs and could not bring Olvera back to life.

After the race, in lieu of an awards ceremony a moment of silence was held, followed by comments from WorldTour pro Nairo Quintana and the SLP Municipal President Enrique Galindo Ceballos, who both somberly expressed condolences for the death of Olvera.

‘It is with great sadness, the Gran Fondo Nairo and the Municipal Government report the unfortunate death of Jesús Alejandro Olvera Carbajal, a cyclist participating in the 160 km modality, who unfortunately lost his life when he collided with two other runners during the route,” Ceballos said.

Clearly moved by the tragedy, on the event stage Nairo Quintana in a broken voice offered, “…up there Alex will be taking care of us and giving the blessing to all, to enlighten us with his presence.”

Over 2000 cyclists participated in the second edition of Gran Fondo Nairo Quintana Mexico.

Photo Credit: Gran Fondo Nairo

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