CN is reporting the death of South African World Champion MTB-er Burry Stander in a training accident in RSA. Early reports have him hit by a taxi.

This would be a tragedy despite any victim's ability, yet Stander was a real talent, winning a U23 XCO World Championship a few years ago, current Singlespeed World Champion, recent top 5 in the Olympics, winner of the grueling Crocodile Cup, consistent top 5 placings in the World Cup races in 2012. This guy was a real talent, I was looking forward to watching him on the road. RIP, Burry.

twitter tributes here: #RIPBurryStander

edit: Here are some great photos of Burry at the Houffalize World Cup last year provided by Patrick Verhoest