Colleagues of woman killed in Okanagan cycling race want answers from organizers

It's been two and a half weeks since a cyclist was hit by a vehicle and killed while competing in the Okanagan Granfondo.

Ava Choy began working in administration for Vancouver Fire Rescue Services in 2015. The head of her union, CUPE Local 15, says it was her firefighting colleagues that got her into cycling.

“And she picked it up and just went for it,” said Warren Williams, union president. “She was very, very fit, mentally and physically, and really enjoyed the challenge of physical activity.”

Choy was competing in the Okanagan Granfondo in Penticton on July 13 when she and two other cyclists were hit by a vehicle. The 49-year-old did not survive.

“My understanding is she was one of the leaders in that race at the time of the accident, too. So that just goes to show her passion and her fortitude,” said Williams.

Choy also worked in the film industry as a stunt performer. Her credits include blockbuster movies like Pacific Rim and Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer.

In an Instagram post, Stunts Canada wrote:

“Ava, it was a true privilege to work alongside you. Your kindness, humour and unwavering dedication left an indelible impact, not just on the job, but on all of us who had the honour of knowing you.”

“Their community is hurting right now. We’re hurting here at (CUPE) 15. Particularly my bargaining committee members and staff. And we have some questions around how this all happened,” said Williams.

Granfondo organizers have not released any details about the accident, and Penticton RCMP will only say they’re still investigating.

“Generally for something like this, there’s barricades, there’s road closures, etc. So how did this individual get on the track? and not only that, a-head on with two other cyclists, which caused Ava’s death,” said Williams. “So, I’d like to get those questions answered not only for us, but of course, for her family and friends.”

In a GoFundMe created to cover funeral expenses, Choy’s family wrote: “Her determination, energy and generosity touched so many lives. Ava was small in stature, but mighty in spirit. She was a fire dragon through and through.”

“You knew by being around her, or at least I did being around her, that she had this quiet confidence,” added Williams. “And for me, that’s how I will remember her.”