January 5, 2007 – Daniel Bennett, 24, a promising and well-respected young Australian cyclist, died tragically of a suspected heart attack during a training ride on Australia’s Gold Coast this morning.

Bennett was riding with a group near the Gold Coast Spit when he collapsed after stopping his bike. Despite efforts to resuscitate him, he did not recover consciousness and was pronounced dead at the Gold Coast Hospital at 8 a.m.

Born in Zimbabwe, Bennett emigrated to Australia’s Gold Coast with his family a decade ago and for the past two years has ridden in Europe with French amateur team Charvieu-Chavagneux. He was due to return to the team next month for the 2007 European season.

“The family of cycling is grieving the loss of a talented, popular young man who loved life and his sport,” said Cycling Australia CEO Graham Fredericks. “We offer our sincerest condolences to Daniel’s parents, Stephen and Deborah, and all his family and friends at this tragic time.”