Alpine Bikes Winter Series - Marshal Collapses and Dies.

We are deeply saddened to report the unexpected death of John Harrison aged 61 of Kidderminister near Birmingham in England. John had volunteered to be a race marshal for the weekend at the Alpine Bikes Winter Series Downhill Mountain Bike Race at Innerleithen in Scotland. He was dropped off by 4x4 to his designated marshal point just prior to the start of practise, moments later John collapsed and despite the best efforts of the attending medics he tragically died. His family suspect natural causes were the cause of Johns death. Practise was postponed and all riders and marshals were brought down the hill safely and the police were called and attended the incident. The organisers held a meeting with the the BC Commissaires and Alpine Bikes and we all decided that while the police investigated, the days riding would be cancelled. As a mark of respect Sundays race was replaced with an open practise with the medics, marshals and BC Commissaires still in place. The feeling was this saved the weekend for people who had travelled to ride, whilst still showing respect for the situation and family of the Marshal. John was the father of one of the junior racers and the mountain bike community, without question will come together to support and assist his son now and into the future. Alpine Bikes and SPS Events would like to thank everyone for their understanding and offers of support to John's son, Benji Harrison.