A former GB triathlete has been killed after she was hit by a van while cycling.
Rebecca Comins, 52, came ninth representing Britain in the 2018 Tartu ETU Triathlon European Championships, and 30th in the 2019 ITU World Triathlon Grand Final Lausanne. She was riding her bike on the A40 near Raglan, Wales, on Thursday when she was involved in a fatal collision with a white Vauxhall Movano.
Following the incident, which took place at around 7.20pm, officers from Gwent Police attended along with paramedics from the Welsh Ambulance Service. It was later confirmed that the Caldicot resident, a mum-of-two, had died at the scene.
A 47-year-old man from the Abergavenny area was arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving and has been released under investigation. Enquiries are still continuing.
A statement was duly released by Gwent Police on behalf of Comins' family, which read: "Our beautiful Rebecca was taken from us on Thursday June 2 doing something she loved.
“She was a caring and loving wife to Stephen and an amazing mum to both George and Millie. We ask people to respect our privacy at this sad time and allow us to grieve as a family.”
As well as her Team GB exploits, Comins had competed in multiple Ironman Wales events and was a member of Dragon Tri Club, Newport Phoenix Cycling Club and Caldicot Running Club. In a tribute posted online, Welsh Triathlon described her as a "fantastic ambassador for our sport.
"Becky was a fierce competitor, but with it had a positivity and energy that was infectious," they said. "The current Vintage Veteran Champion of the Welsh Triathlon Super Series, a title which she also won in 2019, Becky was due to compete in a Welsh tri-suit at the British Championships this weekend at WTS Leeds as part of Tîm Tri Cymru along with her son George.
"She was also looking forward to racing at the British Sprint Championships in Cardiff. She loved the sport; she loved the training and Becky was central to any social activities across her clubs.
"Becky will be sadly missed by everyone within our triathlon community, and we extend our deepest sympathies to Becky’s family, Steve, George and Millie and her wider friends at this sad time."
Comins also worked as a sports masseur and first aider for Caldicot RFC, and the rugby club released their own heartfelt tribute: "The committee, players and members of Caldicot RFC are saddened to hear of the tragic loss of Rebecca Comins," they wrote on Twitter.
"Becky made a huge contribution to the club as our first team sports masseur and first aider. Our condolences and best wishes are extended to Steve, George, Millie and family."
