By: Chloe Wu

This past Saturday, July 29th, Magnus White, a rising star on USA Cycling’s Junior team, died after being hit by a car while he was cycling on the shoulder of a highway in his hometown of Boulder, Colorado. White was preparing for his trip to Glasgow, Scotland, where he would compete in the Junior Men’s Mountain Bike Cross-Country World Championships on August 10, 2023. White was only 17 years old.

White fell in love with cycling at a young age and immediately became a rising star. He won the 2021 Junior 17-18 Cyclocross National Championships, and then joined the USA Cycling National Team. He continued to represent the U.S. and the Boulder community as he competed in more national cycling competitions.

White’s parents, Jill and Michael, released a statement on Sunday, confirming the news. “Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the tragic loss of our beloved son, Magnus White,” the statement said. “Magnus was dedicated to his family and friends and loved to surround them with laughter. He had an amazing smile that always lit up the room, bringing joy to those around him.”

While riding on the shoulder of Highway 119, White was hit by a 23-year-old woman driving a Toyota Matrix. The driver struck White as she crossed from the right-hand lane to the shoulder of the highway. White was transported to the hospital and pronounced dead. The car driver was unharmed.

USA cycling gave a statement on Sunday as well. In their statement, USA cycling stated that White was a rising star in cycling.

“We offer our heartfelt condolences to the White family, his teammates, friends, and the Boulder community during this incredibly difficult time,” the statement continued. “We ride for Magnus.”

The death of Magnus White devastated many communities and fans. As the cycling community unites to grieve for White’s death, it reminds us of the significance of road safety.