Lorraine Truong Obituary: Athlete, Trailblazer, and Concussion Awareness Advocate (1995–2025)

The global mountain biking community is mourning the tragic loss of Lorraine Truong, a gifted athlete, fearless competitor, and passionate advocate for concussion awareness and adaptive sports. Lorraine passed away in 2025 at the age of 30, leaving behind a powerful legacy that transcends sport. From the rugged trails of international racing circuits to the stages of public advocacy and adaptive athletic innovation, Lorraine’s impact will be felt for generations.

A Rising Star in Mountain Biking

Born in 1995, Lorraine Truong emerged as a rising star in the mountain biking world, competing at the highest levels in both World Cup Downhill (DH) and Enduro World Series (EWS) events. Known for her fearless riding style, technical precision, and unwavering determination, she was widely regarded as one of the sport’s most promising young talents. Lorraine’s career was full of potential and excitement—until a life-altering accident in 2015 changed everything.

A Life-Changing Brain Injury and New Purpose

During a 2015 EWS event, Lorraine suffered a serious brain injury that would upend her professional aspirations. While the crash ended her racing career, it ignited a new mission: to raise awareness about the risks of concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI) in action sports. Lorraine became one of the first voices in the mountain biking world to publicly advocate for more serious discussion and treatment of head injuries—particularly the cumulative effects of repeated concussions.

Her honesty about the struggles that followed—debilitating fatigue, cognitive impairment, emotional challenges—helped to humanize an often-ignored topic. She urged racing bodies, event organizers, and fellow riders to prioritize safety, recovery protocols, and mental health. Her work helped change attitudes in mountain biking and influenced broader conversations around concussion protocols in extreme sports.

Champion of Adaptive Sports and Inclusive Design

Despite her physical limitations, Lorraine refused to give up on her love of adventure. She pivoted to adaptive sports, embracing the challenges of her new reality with characteristic grit and resilience. Not content to simply participate, Lorraine helped lead innovation in the space. She played a crucial role in developing the Orange AD3, an advanced adaptive mountain bike that allowed riders with disabilities to experience the thrill of off-road cycling.

Thanks to her advocacy and involvement, adaptive mountain biking (aMTB) gained visibility and recognition across the world. Her story inspired other injured athletes to explore adaptive opportunities and helped reshape perceptions about what disabled athletes could achieve.

Lorraine’s influence wasn’t limited to biking. She became a three-time world champion in wheelchair motocross (WCMX)—a sport that combines wheelchair use with skatepark riding. She also took up para-climbing and sit-skiing, constantly pushing boundaries and redefining what was possible. Her journey became a beacon of hope and determination, not only for injured athletes but for anyone facing adversity.

A Voice for Mental Health and Invisible Disabilities

Throughout her journey, Lorraine was consistently open about the emotional and psychological toll of her brain injury. She spoke candidly about the mental health impacts of chronic illness, the isolation of invisible disabilities, and the challenges of rebuilding a life after trauma. She championed dignity and visibility for people living with neurological conditions and helped amplify important conversations around mental health in sports.

Lorraine reminded the world that recovery is not always linear, and that true healing involves recognition, support, and compassion. Her courage in sharing her story encouraged others to do the same and brought much-needed attention to how society supports—or often fails to support—those dealing with long-term injuries.

A Family’s Loving Tribute

Lorraine Truong’s family released a heartfelt statement following her passing:

“We are heartbroken to share that our beloved Lorraine has passed away. She faced immense challenges with courage and determination trying to find joy and fun despite her personal struggles. She spoke out about injustice and the difficulties of living with complex health conditions and became an ambassador for young athletes with disabilities. After her head injuries and the subsequent health issues that followed, Lorraine reminded us that mental health is not just personal—it is deeply connected to recognition, dignity, and the sense of belonging in society. Lorraine will be dearly missed and remembered with love.”

A Lasting Legacy in Sport and Beyond

Lorraine Truong’s legacy is far-reaching. She helped change the way the mountain biking community views concussion protocols, athlete safety, and mental health awareness. Her contributions to adaptive sports, including her role in developing cutting-edge equipment, empowered countless others to rediscover joy and purpose through movement. She championed the rights and dignity of disabled athletes, making competitive and recreational spaces more inclusive.

She inspired thousands with her honesty, tenacity, and unwavering belief in the power of community, even amid personal suffering. Lorraine taught us that being a true athlete isn’t just about podiums—it’s about heart, resilience, and advocacy.

As riders around the world take to the trails, many do so safer and more aware thanks to Lorraine Truong. Her legacy will ride with us, not only in the form of better helmets and protocols but also in the empathy we extend to those around us.

In Memory of Lorraine Truong

Lorraine Truong will be remembered not only for her competitive achievements but for her spirit of determination, her advocacy for invisible injuries, and her role in creating a more inclusive and supportive sports world. She leaves behind a powerful reminder: that even in the face of adversity, it’s possible to carve new paths, inspire others, and change the game entirely.

Our deepest condolences go to her family, friends, and all those touched by her journey.

Ride in peace, Lorraine. Your courage and compassion will never be forgotten.