World cycling champion Catlin dies at 23

“We will all miss her dearly,” added DeMartini. “Kelly was more than an athlete to us and she will always be part of the USA Cycling family.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Catlin family. This is an incredibly difficult time and we want to respect their privacy.

“The entire cycling community is mourning this immense loss. We are offering continuous support to Kelly’s team-mates, coaches and staff. We also encourage all those who knew Kelly to support each other through the grieving.”

Catlin also won individual pursuit bronze at both the 2017 and 2018 World Track Championships.

She won all three of her world titles alongside Chloe Dygert Owen and Jennifer Valente, while Kimberley Geist was part of the 2017 and 2018 triumphs after Sarah Hammer rode in 2016.

Catlin, who was born in Saint Paul, graduated from the University of Minnesota last year with degrees in mathematics and Chinese and was studying computational and mathematical engineering at Stanford University in California.

“The news of Kelly’s passing has hit the team hard,” said Rally UHC Cycling in a statement on social media.

“Losing an incredible person at such a young age is very difficult.

“Kelly was our friend and team-mate. Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family and those who were fortunate enough to know her best.”

Chloe Dygert Owen, who was in the same team for all three of Catlin’s world titles, posted on social media: “We will miss you forever. Rest in peace now, Kelly.”