But in sports in the UK. Former Olympic swimmer Helen Smart has died "suddenly" at the age of 43.
Former swimmer, known by her maiden name Helen Dunn-Duncan, who was a member of Team Great Britain for the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games. She also won the silver medal at the 1999 World Championships in Hong Kong in the 200m backstroke, and silver the previous year at the European Championships in Sheffield in the same swim.
Her close friend Rachel Ashcroft, who swam alongside Smart on the team, said: "Helen was special – the kind of person you want your kids to grow up to be like. Helen's determination and natural competitive spirit have always inspired me. We competed against each other many times, but somehow it always felt like we were helping each other along the way."
Sudden Death, Former Team GB Olympic Swimmer Helen Smart #DiedSuddenly aged 43.https://t.co/yqfkUA6FYk pic.twitter.com/xbi5LNmGLa
— Hello Dave (@David83823494) August 16, 2023
World and Commonwealth champion Katie Sexton, who made her Olympic debut alongside Helen in Sydney, said: "I tried to find the words about but I'm so shocked by the news, I don't know what to say. Helen was such a lively character, always happy and a great friend. She was such a dedicated athlete and had an amazing work ethic. We will miss you very much."
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Since retiring, Smart has moved on to teach at a school. Teachers union chairwoman Alison Halliwell said: "It is with great sadness that I have to announce the sudden death of our beloved teacher, Mrs Helen Smart. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Helen's family at this very difficult time."
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