Kelly McGarry was well-known to those who love the sport of mountain biking.
Of course, Kelly McGarry was the star of many a heart-pounding GoPro video showcasing his skills on scary mountain trails.
But, Kelly McGarry was also “easy-going, hilarious and approachable” and “a positive role model for kids”, according to a new video posted in his honor.
Kelly McGarry was riding uphill Queenstown, New Zealand’s Fernhill Loop Track when he suffered from a cardiac arrest on Monday.
McGarry was only 33 and was in prime physical condition.
After the sad news hearing about Kelly McGarry Passing away this morning we thought we'd upload this nice video shot by the guys over at @dirtmagazine Kelly Passed away around 4:14pm whilst riding on a trail and was pronounced dead at the scene…. we still dont know the full story behind what happened or how but EVERYONE from the Sport shall miss this Friendly Giant All our thoughts and prayers go to his Family and Friends at this Very Sad Time.
Posted by Blizzard Extreme Sports on Monday, February 1, 2016
Kelly McGarry’s father, Nick McGarry was just as shocked as the rest of the world.
He said, “How the hell could that happen (to him) with a such fine physique like that? It just doesn’t make sense. Boy, he was just a ball of muscle. He was so fit – not heart attack material at all.”
Nick went on to say how proud he was of his son, Kelly McGarry, and all that he had accomplished in his short life.
He said, “We wouldn’t have conceived that a young man could make a career out of it – and getting sponsors to pay him to do what he enjoyed. He did it all without any assistance – even from me to a certain extent. He didn’t ask for anything . . . He just did it all on his own.”
He added, “He’s awesome. He’s one of New Zealand’s greats and I’m just so proud of him.”
What do you think of the sweet video tribute to Kelly McGarry?