The BC Coroners Service has confirmed the identity of a man who died after a mountain-biking accident near Naramata on Oct. 21, 2012.

The man is Robert Allan Mason, aged 53, from Penticton.

Mr. Mason, a highly experienced cyclist who was wearing a helmet, suffered a witnessed-fall from his mountain bike while on an expedition in an area known as "Three Blind Mice" along Naramata Bench, near Penticton in the late morning hours of Oct. 21. The cyclists with whom he was riding called for help immediately, but despite the best efforts of emergency personnel, he was not able to be resuscitated.

The Coroners Service is continuing to investigate this death.

The family of Mr. Mason has been notified of his death. On behalf of the family, the Coroners Service asks that the media respect their privacy at this difficult time.

The BC Coroners Service expresses its condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Mason.

For further information, please contact:

Barb McLintock
Coroner, Strategic Operations
BC Coroners Service
250 356-9253