First hearing in Mike Hall death inquest set

The first steps along the path towards an inquest into the death of Mike Hall, ultra-endurance cyclist who died whilst competing in the Indian Pacific Wheel Race, have been announced by the ACT Coroner's Court.

Welshman Mike Hall died tragically while competing in the Indian Pacific Wheel Race. Source: Indian Pacific Wheel Race

A directions hearing relating to the inquest into the circumstances surrounding the death of Mike Hall will be held at the Coroner’s Court, Magistrates Court Building, Knowles Place, Canberra City on 18 December 2017, commencing at 9.30 a.m.

A directions hearing determines the scope of the inquest, date and length of the process, and is an important first step in the legal process for coronial findings.

Mike Hall was killed on the Monaro Highway just outside Canberra following a collision with a car in the early hours of March 31st.

Hall was regarded as one of the world’s best ultra-endurance racers and holds the record for the fastest completion of the Trans Am in the U.S.

His death saw a public swell of grief, with a ride to the Opera House attended by hundreds and speeches given to farewell the popular rider.

The race was called off after the tragic event, with competitors either pulling out or opting to continue outside the framework of the race. The event will return in 2018, with IndiPac organisers having made changes to a number of safety procedures.

“We’re running the Indian Pacific Wheel Race again because of Mike,” event founder Jesse Carlsson said. “We want to continue his work and inspire the masses. Every cyclist should be able to cross the country on their bike unscathed. The Indian Pacific Wheel Race gives us a unique opportunity to highlight the need for greater respect and awareness for all road users.”

The decision to hold the Indian Pacific Wheel Race again has the support of Hall’s mother, Patricia, along with the 2017 participants and the dot-watching community.

The single-stage, unsupported, 5,500km race across Australia will depart from Fremantle, Western Australia on Saturday, March 17, 2018. The race will conclude in Sydney at the Opera House Forecourt.