By Peter Douglas
Just days after passing through Woori Yallock and Yarra Junction, the Indian Pacific Wheel Race has been called off after the death of one of the inaugural event’s top competitors.
Organisers announced the race would cease effective immediately, following confirmation of the death of Mike Hall.
Mr Hall, 35, passed away on the Monaro Highway, south of Canberra, after he was struck by a car around 6.20am on Friday 31 March.
He was in second place at the time in the race, which is a 5500km solo, unsupported bikepacking race from Fremantle to Sydney.
Hall was widely regarded as one of the world’s best ultra-endurance racers.
Seventy riders left Fremantle for the inaugural race, with the top riders passing through the Upper Yarra area on Monday 27 March.
The statement from the organisers confirmed the cancellation.
“The Indian Pacific Wheel Race has been cancelled with immediate effect following this morning’s tragic accident,” the release read.
“Every effort is personally being made to get in contact with riders that remain on the road to inform them of the situation.”
