Team GB snowboarder Ellie Soutter has died aged 18, the British Olympic Association announced Thursday.
In a joint statement released on Team GB's official website, BOA chair Hugh Robertson and Athlete Commision Chair Ben Hawes paid tribute to Soutter, who died on her 18th birthday Wednesday.
"Ellie was an incredibly popular and well-liked member of the team," the statement read. "Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this sad time."
No further details were released about the athlete's death. Soutter last year won bronze at the European Youth Olympic Winter Festival in Erzurum, Turkey -- Team GB's only medal at the event.
The British Olympic Association is saddened to hear of the sudden passing of snowboard cross athlete Ellie Soutter, aged 18.
— Team GB (@TeamGB) July 26, 2018
Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this sad time.https://t.co/MyyHv2Kf2z pic.twitter.com/3LpQHqOhH4
British Ski & Snowboard (BSS) said in a statement on its website it was "saddened" to learn of Soutter's sudden death and described her as one of the country's best snowboard prospects. Soutter, who competed in both snowboard cross and freeride, had been selected as part of the British team for next month's Junior World Championships in New Zealand.
"The thoughts and condolences of the British Ski & Snowboard community are with Ellie's family, friends and teammates," the statement added.