By now the cycling community not only in Australia but the world has learnt of the tragic death of James Williamson, 2008 World Solo 24 Hour Champion. We at Cognition felt it was important to say a few words in respect of such a great rider.
James died peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday night in South Africa after the 2nd stage of the 722km Adsa Cape Epic. Originally from NSW Southern Highlands, James moved to Canberra to study jouralism and public relations at the University of Canberra. While there he raced and trained with many of the local riders as well as giving up his time to coach the junior riders of the area.
His love of mountain biking and just being on his bike lead him to complete and win many endurance races and eventually becoming the editor of the Enduro Magazine. The year he became the world solo champion was the year he beat Tinker Juarez, the US favorite and lead a line of aussies onto the podium with 1st,2nd,3rd and 4th places going to the aussies(James Williamson, Jason English, Mark Fenner and Jeff Toohey- a sunshine coast rider and friend).
A post mortem examination revealed a serious undiagnosed heart ventricle problem that was a genetric condition. This was not caused by his riding if anything his fitness kept him stronger.
From all accounts James was a extremely well liked and respected man with many contributions going out to him, Such as the up and coming Australian Solo 24hr MTB championships this Easter weekend, riders will wear black memorial armbands.
Amazing man, amazing life, someone who will be sorely missed..
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