Triathlete died in bike crash on holiday - inquest

Sam O'Shea was cycling in Perpignan when he was hit by a motorbike, Wakefield Coroner's Court was told

A Commonwealth Games triathlete died after being hit by a motorbike while cycling with his partner and friend in France, an inquest has heard.

Sam O'Shea, who represented Gibraltar at the 2022 games in Birmingham, was fatally struck while riding down a hill in Perpignan, close to the Spanish border, Wakefield Coroner's Court was told on Monday.

The 27-year-old had been holidaying in the region after taking part in a race with his partner and a friend in another part of France, it was said.

Assistant coroner John Hobson said the motorbike collided with Mr O'Shea, who was born in Gibraltar but lived in Leeds, after travelling round a blind bend from the opposite direction.

Mr O'Shea, who was a bike mechanic by occupation, was airlifted to hospital but never regained consciousness and subsequently died from chest and abdominal injuries.

The inquest into his death was adjourned to a later date.

Paying tribute to Mr O'Shea following his death last month, the Gibraltar Cycling Association said he had died "doing what he loved".

They added: "Sam was not only an incredible teammate but also a true friend whose energy and kindness touched everyone around him.

"He will be missed more than words can say.

"Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, his girlfriend and all who were fortunate enough to know him."

Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.