LAS VEGAS, NV – Daniela Larreal Chirinos, a renowned Venezuelan cyclist and five-time Olympian, was discovered deceased in her Las Vegas residence, as per law enforcement reports. The 50-year-old former Olympian’s death was reportedly due to choking on food. The alarm was raised when she did not show up for work at a Las Vegas hotel for a week.
Larreal Chirinos was a significant figure in Venezuelan cycling from 1990 to 2012. She represented her country in the speed cycling event at five Olympic Games, including Barcelona in 1992, Atlanta in 1996, Sydney in 2000, Athens in 2004, and London in 2012. Her athletic achievements extended beyond the Olympics, with numerous medals won in various international competitions.
Among her notable achievements were two gold medals at the 2002 games in San Salvador and two silver medals, one from the same games and another from a competition in Mexico City in 1990. She also secured two silver medals at the Pan American Games in Santo Domingo in 2003.
In addition to her Olympic and Pan American Games successes, Larreal Chirinos clinched three golds and a silver at the 2002 Central American and Caribbean Games in San Salvador, El Salvador. Her athletic career was characterized by consistent success and a commitment to her sport that established her as a leading figure in Venezuelan cycling.
Before relocating to the United States, Larreal Chirinos obtained a degree in physical education in her native Venezuela. The cause of her death has been determined as asphyxiation due to solid food remains found in her trachea, as stated in the police report.
The passing of Larreal Chirinos is a significant loss to the cycling community, especially in Venezuela where she was a revered athlete. Her legacy in the sport is expected to continue to motivate future generations of cyclists.