Tributes for cyclist who died during Dubai 92 race

Neil Greer suffered a heart attack, say race organisors

Tributes have been paid to a cyclist who died during the Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge.

Organisors said he had a heart attack during the race on Friday.

Neil Greer, a British cyclist, died on Friday after suffering from coronary seizure during the Spinneys 92 cycle race.

“That is tragic news. RIP Neil Greer, we had a couple of great rides together, chatting about our shared love of all things bikes. My sincere condolences to Neil’s family and his friends,” Sam Whittam said in a statement on Facebook, paying tribute to the cyclist, who is from Portstewart, Northern Ireland, lived in Dubai.

"One of the cyclists in our Cycle Challenge suffered a serious coronary seizure and passed away early this morning. We would like to send our deepest condolences to Neil's family and all his friends on this very sad news. He will be deeply missed," Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge said in a statement on Facebook.

On social media, several friends and associates paid tribute to Greer. Frances Caldwell wrote on Facebook: “Very sad, taken far to soon my dear Neil. We did some great trips. Sincere condolences to your family and loved ones. Sleep tight Neil will miss your jokes too.”

While Gavin Appleby said: “So saddened to hear this, a terrific person, great conversations held on the bike many times. Neil loved his bike, we will miss him. RIP mate."

And Mike Kelly added that "Neil was one of the first people I met when I came to Dubai in 2006. He was very friendly and welcoming, which was appreciated as a newbie in the region. He always seemed to be a very helpful and all round nice guy. My sympathies to Neil's family and friends.”