Melissa Hoskins, a renowned Australian Olympic track cyclist and former world champion, tragically passed away at the age of 32, as confirmed by Australia’s Olympic committee on Monday. The devastating incident occurred in Adelaide, Australia, where Hoskins succumbed to severe injuries sustained after being hit by a car driven by a familiar individual, as per a statement from South Australian Police.
While the police statement refrained from identifying the involved parties, local media outlets, including Australia’s national broadcaster ABC, indicated that Rohan Dennis, Hoskins’ husband and a prominent figure in cycling with accolades like two-time world time trial champion and Tour de France stage winner, faced charges related to the incident.
Dennis has been charged with “causing death by dangerous driving, driving without due care, and endangering life” and is scheduled for a court appearance at the Adelaide Magistrates Court on March 13 after being granted bail, as outlined by the police statement.
As the global cycling community grapples with this profound loss, tributes pour in for Hoskins, celebrating her illustrious career and indomitable spirit. The accomplished cyclist clinched a world championship title and set a world record in 2015 as part of Australia’s women’s team pursuit quartet. Additionally, she showcased her prowess at the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games, narrowly missing out on a medal by a mere 0.181 seconds in the 2012 London Games.
Retiring post the Rio Olympic Games in 2017, Hoskins embraced a new chapter, tying the knot with Dennis in 2018 and embracing motherhood with the birth of two children. The cycling world mourns her untimely departure, with heartfelt tributes pouring in from stalwarts like Olympic gold medalist Anna Meares and global organizations like CPA Women and her former team, Liv AlUla Jayco, reflecting on her enduring legacy and impactful contributions to the sport.
