Canadian Stevie Smith, one of the genuine stars of World Cup Downhill racing, died yesterday as a result of a brain injury sustained in a motorcycle accident. He was 26 years old.

The details of the accident are scant at the moment except that the accident occurred in Smith’s hometown of Nanaimo, British Columbia.

The team manager of Smith’s sponsor, Devinci Global Racing, Gabe Fox said on Devinci’s Facebook page: “Today we lost a great person, who taught me about myself and influenced many. Stevie was a fierce competitor, an honest friend and a rider who made me proud on countless occasions. I am honoured to consider him my friend for so long.”

2013 World Cup Champion

Stevie Smith took the Canadian downhill racing by storm before bursting on to the international World Cup racing scene.

He will perhaps be forever remembered for his amazing 2013 season where he took dominant wins at Leogang, Hafjell and Mont-Sainte-Anne and secured himself the overall World Cup champion title.

The Canadian Chainsaw

His nickname was The Canadian Chainsaw. He was renowned as one of those racers who was always worth watching when they appeared on the start ramp.

He had a few injuries since that famous year but the Devinci sponsored rider had been making a very promising start to the 2016 race season, taking 2nd place at Lourdes.

Devinci teammate, Mark Wallace said: “I would not be anywhere on the bike without Steve. Most importantly he taught me to be confident in my abilities, race my bike properly and take risks. As training partners, we pushed each other to the limit.”

Stevie Smith Legacy Fund

Smith’s family have begun a Stevie Smith Legacy Fund at www.gofundme.com/23k7fus and donations will go towards assisting young athletes.

A Celebration Of Life will be held on May 21st at 1pm at the Vancouver Island Convention Centre, Nanaimo.