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Wooldridge won a team pursuit gold at the 2004
Athens Olympics and four world titles in the same discipline
from 2002-06.
Wooldridge's death came as a shock to Australia's cycling
community and triggered a flood of tributes on social media.
"Our thoughts are with Stephen's family and friends during this
very difficult time," Cycling Australia CEO Nick Green said in a
statement.
"Steve will be remembered by so many for not only his success in
competition, but also for the contributions he made across so
many roles in the sport."
After his track career wound down, Sydney-born Wooldridge held a
number of administrative roles in cycling and education.
He was survived by a son and a daughter, state broadcaster ABC
said.
Wooldridge was remembered as an infectious, generous man but
friends and colleagues spoke of a private mental health battle.
"Tragically today he gave his life away leaving behind a son and
daughter, family and friends just short of his 40th birthday,"
Phil Bates, the general manager of St George Cycling Club in
Sydney and a former mentor to the rider, wrote on cycling media
portal Ride Media (ridemedia.com.au).
"Terribly sad to hear we've lost you Stephen Wooldridge. RIP,"
Australian cycling great Anna Meares tweeted.
(Reporting by Ian Ransom; Editing by Greg Stutchbury/John
O'Brien)
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