New Zealand 2016 Olympic cyclist Olivia Podmore dies at 24
Cycling New Zealand said Podmore died “suddenly” Monday (August 9) but did not disclose a cause or other details. Podmore also represented New Zealand at the 2018 Commonwealth Games on Australia’s Gold Coast.
In a statement Tuesday (August 10), Cycling New Zealand described Podmore as a “much loved and respected rider.” The organization noted that many are “understandably devastated” and, without elaboration, urged people to seek help for mental health if needed.
“Be kind to each other and take care of each other,” the statement said. The New Zealand Olympic Committee said it has begun offering support to athletes and staff on the country’s Olympic team.
In a statement, double Olympic rowing gold medalist Eric Murray said he and Podmore had been snowboarding together on Sunday, and he was likely the last person to see her alive.
Murray said Podmore was a close friend and when he last saw her, she was happy and smiling. He said he had no cause to be concerned for her well-being.
Concerns for Podmore first arose after she posted a message on social media. Police were called to her home at Cambridge, near Hamilton on New Zealand’s North Island, where she was found dead.
