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ESPN Star Sports Official Statement

In a tragic turn of events Thursday, 14-year-old Harry Chau Hon Wai died from severe internal injuries suffered during a bike crash. He was participating in a practice session on the BMX Park course at the final stop of the 2001 Asian Xtour in Singapore. He was an entrant in the Bicycle Stunt Park competition for the Junior X division of the Xtour, a preliminary qualifier for ESPN's Summer X Games.

According to reports, Harry Chau was attemping an unknown trick when he crashed, causing the handlebar to slam into the center of his chest, knocking him unconscious. Safety officials from St. John Ambulance staff, as well as Harry Chau's mother, immediately came to his side. He was rushed to nearby Mount Elizabeth Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Harry Chau never regained consciousness after the crash and the official cause of death is still unknown. An autopsy is expected to take place in the next few days

Harry Chau was wearing all competition required safety equipment during the crash including a helmet along with knee and elbow pads. Several safety measures were in place, and medics were present at the park course.

ESPN spokespeople say they are doing everything possible in regards to safety at competitions such as this. ESPN contracts several sport-specific industry personnel to help plan, regulate and design its competitions.

In an official statement from ESPN Star Sports, the company expressed sorrow and regret for the accidental death. The competition in Singapore will be postponed for a day in respect for Harry Chau.

This is the first death associated with an ESPN X Games event or qualifer. At most events such as the X Games there are usually injuries of some magnitude, given the dangerous nature of the sports that these competitions play host to.

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