Remembering Dave Mirra: BMX Legend & Pioneer

The news that accomplished BMX rider, Dave Mirra, 41, died yesterday, of an apparent suicide, has left the sports world heartbroken.

Dave leaves behind an unforgettable legacy as a BMX rider and a career full of some incredibly impressive stunts. Mirra's BMX skills transcended each discipline, as the naturally skilled rider excelled at both flatland and ramp riding, which is considered a rarity in the sport. He scored a total of 24 X-Games medals and an ESPY for Best Male Action Sports Athlete in 2005. He was the host of MTV’s The Challenge for two seasons and even launched his own video game, Dave Mirra Freestyle BMX. But Dave will always be known for the amazing things he could do on a bike. He is a legend, pioneer and everything he pursued pushed the world of action sports.

Here are some of Dave's most memorable moments.

https://youtu.be/2uDGu9-Y0VA

https://youtu.be/q2rpDeW3Gb4

https://youtu.be/b8g014xeVPw

Really love you guys... @fuzzyhall @davemirra @bowie82

A photo posted by TJ (@tjlavin) on Feb 4, 2016 at 3:44pm PST

Waking up to the realization this morning that Dave is gone is absolutely heart breaking. I was telling my wife that most of the best memories from my career have Dave involved one way or another, and it's always a funny memory. Dave was such a genuine dude. He always had a smile on his face and cracking jokes, unless he was in contest mode. He was the fiercest competitor I have ever met. Unfortunately I haven't seen Dave much since he retired, but I guess that's what happens in life. Wish I had known something was wrong and he new he had some to talk to. I understand the battle w/ depression. I tame mine with therapy and family. Im mad as hell at you for doing this, and my heart absolutely shatters for your daughters and wife. But I will cherish our time together and the many good times we had. Ride in Paradise, Dime Bag. You will be greatly missed. A photo posted by Carey Hart (@hartluck) on Feb 5, 2016 at 7:23am PST

Goodbye Dave Mirra, a true pioneer, icon and legend. Thank you for the memories, we are heartbroken. To those struggling in private: please reach out for help. You are not alone.

A photo posted by Tony Hawk (@tonyhawk) on Feb 4, 2016 at 6:45pm PST

Dave Mirra is one of best if not the best BMX rider. I met him in 2002 and you would never know that he was a god, he's one of the most down to earth greats I ever met you will be missed ?? @tonyhawk thanks for bring on trip were we partied, gambled and shredded together ? A photo posted by Atiba Jefferson (@atibaphoto) on Feb 4, 2016 at 7:53pm PST