Bahrain sporting community mourns triathlon fanatic Allan Sword

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

The 49-year-old cyclist who was killed early this morning in a hit-and-run has been identified as British citizen Allan Sword. He was one of the main pillars and founding members of the Bahrain Ironman and Bahrain Triathlon communities, it was learnt.  

Mr Sword was riding his bike on Wali Al Ahad highway near Jasrah towards Hamala at around 6.30am when a car driven by a 39-year-old Bahraini man hit him.

Though the accused drove away, police was able to track him down hardly 30 minutes after the incident. He is currently in custody.

The deceased was the senior executive officer of ABC Bank and has been a Bahrain resident for nearly 15 years.

According to eyewitnesses, Mr Sword used to regularly train in the area in preparation for upcoming sporting events.

Bahrain Triathlon Club’s Olga Garland told the News of Bahrain that Mr Sword was the “heart and soul” of the club and thanks to him hundreds have taken on triathlon in Bahrain. “He was a kind man who gave generously his time and support to the community. I’m sure everyone who knew him is devastated with the news. Allan gave so much support to the sport. We called him the ‘gentleman’.

Bahrain Triathlon Club chairman Dr Sheikh Saqr bin Salman Al Khalifa mourned Mr Sword. “The Bahraini sports community has lost one of its main pillars and founding members of Triathlon here.”

He also stressed on the need to put in place strict laws to protect riders, similar to that of other developed countries.

Meanwhile a close aquaintance and an eye witness to the tragedy told the News of Bahrain that the driver who caused the accident was speeding. "Allan was pronounced dead at the scene by the paramedics. I don't know what else to say. He was a fantastic guy, helpful, a gentleman and a great friend," he said, requesting anonymity.

Mr Sword is survived by his wife as well as two kids - a son and daughter - from a previous marriage.