AceShowbiz - Daniela Larreal Chirinos, a renowned Venezuelan cyclist who competed in five Olympic Games, was tragically found dead in her Las Vegas apartment last Friday, August 16. The 50-year-old athlete reportedly choked to death on her food.

Daniela Larreal Chirinos, a figure central to Venezuelan cycling, participated in the speed cycling event in five Olympic Games, spanning from 1992 to 2012. Authorities discovered her body on August 16 after colleagues raised concerns when she failed to appear for work at a Las Vegas hotel since August 12.

Police determined her cause of death to be asphyxiation caused by solid food remains in her trachea, with the date of death estimated to be August 11.

The story of Chirinos' life and career is one marked by significant milestones and contributions to the sport. She made her Olympic debut in Barcelona in 1992 and later competed in Atlanta 1996, Sydney 2000, Athens 2004, and London 2012. Her best Olympic finish was in London 2012, where she achieved seventh place in the team sprint finals.

Beyond her Olympic achievements, Chirinos was a celebrated cyclist at the Pan American Games and the Pan American Championships, where she won two gold medals. She also excelled at the Central American and Caribbean Games in 2002, earning three golds and a silver.

Following her competitive years, Chirinos relocated to the United States and pursued a career outside of cycling. She was employed at a hotel in Las Vegas, and her untimely death has deeply affected both her colleagues and fans alike.

The Venezuelan Olympic Committee expressed their grief on social media, highlighting her significant accomplishments and the pride she brought to her country.

"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," the committee wrote.

Chirinos was also an outspoken political figure, known for criticizing the regime of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro. This led her to eventually move to the United States, where she continued her life and work until her passing.

Following her tragic death, the comment section of her latest Instagram posts has become a space for fans and admirers to pay their respects. One commenter wrote, "Rest in peace Daniela. You were always a warrior, an excellent athlete." Another added, "You were an example and one of great admiration. You remain in our hearts. Strength for your family and your loved ones."

Daniela Larreal Chirinos will be remembered not only for her athletic prowess but also for her influence and the legacy she leaves within the world of cycling.