Our deepest sympathies go out to the family and friends of Maria Cristina Fárez who was tragically killed yesterday in a bike accident while training.

A two-time South American Junior Champion, Cristina was one of Ecuador’s most promising young athletes and was due to compete in the upcoming ITU Huatulco World Cup and Pan-American Games in Toronto in July.

She will be missed by family, friends and all the sporting community of Ecuador. At only 20 years old Maria’s life was cut far too short. Our sport can be dangerous at times. Be safe out there on the roads when training.