Racer Dies During Leadville 100

Veteran Leadville Trail 100 racer, Scott Ellis, died while racing the Leadville 100 mountain bike race on Saturday according the the event’s Facebook page.  Scott is the first person to die in the Leadville 100 it the race’s 21-year history.

This was the 55-year-old Johnston, CO resident’s 19th time competing in the Leadville 100.  Scott was ascending the course’s Power Line climb near mile 82, when he collapsed.  Nearby competitors called 911 and performed CPR until help arrived.  CPR efforts were unsuccessful and Scott passed away before an ambulance could arrive.

“Scott was probably one of the most honest and trustworthy people that I know.  Honestly, he used to tell me and other people that if he got to choose how he’d want to die, he’d want to do so doing something he loved.” – Gale Bernhardt, good friend of Scott Ellis told the Coloradoan

The entire Leadville family is saddened by the loss of dedicated and cherished mountain bike racer, Scott Ellis. Scott was a 19-time participant and truly embodied the spirit of Leadville, completing his first race in 1997 and earning his 1,000-mile buckle in 2006. He truly will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with Scott’s family and all others who had the privilege to know him.

We also want to express our appreciation for the many individuals who so graciously suspended their own races to assist Scott at his time of need. This truly is an example of the power of the human spirit and just how much these athletes are part of the special community we have established in Leadville. Working with the family, the Leadville Race Series will honor Scott at a future time.

Sincerely,
Josh Colley and the entire Leadville Race Series Team