It is with great sadness that we relay the information that Kelly McGarry has died after collapsing while riding on his local trails.

A police spokesman said emergency services were called to the Ben Lomond Track, about 45 minutes walk from the top of the Skyline Gondola, about 4pm Monday, February 1. St John Central Lakes territory manager Kelvin Perriman confirmed a man, aged in his 30s, had died. This was later confirmed as 33-year old Kelly McGarry.

They flew two paramedics in but Kelly was deceased when they got there. Perriman said the death was likely a medical event and not a bike crash. A rescue helicopter was sent to the scene but it was not used for transport.

YT Industries announcement

Shattering news out of New Zealand: Mountainbike freeride star Kelly McGarry has died on Monday, 1st of February 2016. Exact circumstances and details are not yet released. Everybody at Kelly's bike sponsor YT, is deeply saddened and shocked by his death. A truly unique character has been lost today.
One of the most likeable mountain bike riders has passed away in Queenstown on Monday, February 1 2016. Which conditions have led to his tragic death are still unclear at this point. Apparently, the 33-year-old was out on his mountain bike.

The entire crew at sponsor YT is absolutely perplexed about the shocking news:

We were informed about his death in the morning and are petrified, shocked and heartbroken about losing one of our family members. Kelly was a warm-hearted, friendly and relaxed guy. He stood for the true essence of mountain biking through every aspect of his life. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, girlfriend and his friends. The mountain bike world lost an exceptional character.

We consider it an honor that Kelly was riding for the YT Family last year.

Ride in paradise!