Daniela Larreal Chirinos, a renowned Olympic cyclist, was discovered dead in her Las Vegas apartment on Aug. 16, 2024. Police found her body following a search ignited by her colleagues, who reported her missing after she failed to show up for work on Aug. 12. Larreal, who had moved to the U.S. several years ago, tragically choked to death on food and was found with remnants blocking her trachea.
The unexpected death of Daniela Larreal Chirinos left many in shock. Friends and colleagues became alarmed when the 50-year-old athlete, known for her reliability and commitment, did not arrive at her workplace for an entire week. The Clark County Coroner’s Office has increased efforts to determine the exact cause of her demise, while initial reports indicate asphyxiation due to food obstruction in her airway.
Former Olympic cyclist Daniela Larreal Chirinos found dead inside Las Vegas apartment days after choking on her food: report https://t.co/w6W20he095 pic.twitter.com/eUYLDAHd0Y
— New York Post Sports (@nypostsports) August 19, 2024
Career and Achievements
Larreal represented Venezuela in five Olympic Games: 1992, 1996, 2000, 2004, and 2012. Her dedication to the sport earned her notable placements, with her best finish being seventh in the Team Sprint final in London 2012. Moreover, she was celebrated for winning gold medals at the Pan American Games and Championships, further cementing her legacy in Venezuelan sports.
“With an outstanding career in track cycling, she managed to represent us with honor in five Olympic Games, accumulate four Olympic diplomas and triumphs that always filled us with great pride.”
Larreal’s career in cycling spanned decades, making her a prominent figure in the sport from 1990 to 2012. After her cycling career, she faced challenges, including exile from Venezuela due to her outspoken criticism of the political regime led by Hugo Chávez and Nicolás Maduro. With a degree in physical education, she transitioned to new roles, including working as a server in Las Vegas before her untimely passing.
Tributes and Remembrances
The Venezuela Olympic Committee honored her memory with a heartfelt tribute on social media. “The COV Board of Directors regrets the departure of Daniela Larreal. With an outstanding career in track cycling, she managed to represent us with honor in five Olympic Games, accumulating four Olympic diplomas and triumphs that always filled us with great pride.” The sports community mourns the loss of a remarkable athlete.
“I join in the mourning that afflicts the country and send my heartfelt words of condolence to her family, friends and those who were her teammates in her sporting career,” Venezuelan opposition figure Henrique Capriles wrote on social media. “May God receive Daniela in eternal rest.”
Larreal’s demise leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew her, followed her career, or were inspired by her achievements. Her perseverance and passion made her not just a champion in cycling but a symbol of dedication.
