Triathlon community mourns the death of Laurent Vidal

French triathlete Laurent Vidal, who competed in two Olympic Games, has died at the age of 31, the worldwide Triathlon Union (ITU) has confirmed.

Vidal, a three-time French national champion who finished fifth in the London 2012 Olympics, retired in April previous year after suffering a cardiopulmonary arrest during a swimming training session.

A few leading New Zealand athletes have offered thier condalences to Hewitt and the Vidal family, including Terenzo Bozzone, Nick Willis and Cameron Brown.

Vidal then shifted into coaching other triathletes – including his fiancee, Andrea Hewitt, and other top athletes.

Triathlon New Zealand has paid tribute to the man who dubbed himself 49 percent Kiwi. “I have spoken to Andrea and she is in a state of shock right now trying to come to terms with what has happened, we all are”, Elvery said.

The double Olympian’s Christchurch-based parents, John and Margaret flew to France this morning to be with her. Her sisters Tina Cox and Sara Hewitt, along with other friends and triathlon colleagues, are also on their way to support her. I had to pack my bags and go straight to France, didn’t really think about it. As soon as I got to France he was awake and recovered in hospital. He and fellow triathlete Tom Davidson are now on their way to France to be with Hewitt.

“Laurent Vidal was a tremendous champion. I offer my condolences to his family and to French sport”.

Belgian Triathlete Frederik Van Lierde tweeted his shock at the news. So many memories. Thoughts are with Andrea & his family. “We all loved you”.