Chumpy Pullin Death — What Happened and Cause of Death
Alex “Chumpy” Pullin, the celebrated Australian snowboarder, tragically died on 7 July 2020 at the age of 32 in a spearfishing accident off Palm Beach on the Gold Coast, Australia.
Pullin was a three-time Winter Olympian and two-time snowboard cross world champion, widely respected for his contributions to winter sport in Australia and around the world. He also served as Australia’s flag bearer at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi.
On the day of his death, Pullin was free diving and spearfishing at an artificial reef without a breathing apparatus. A fellow diver later found him unconscious on the sea floor, and lifeguards attempted to resuscitate him on the beach for nearly an hour. Unfortunately, he could not be revived.
Authorities reported that he lost consciousness underwater, which is believed to be linked to free-diving risks such as shallow water blackout — a condition where a diver faints from lack of oxygen before resurfacing.
Pullin’s sudden passing shocked the sporting community. Tributes poured in from former teammates, coaches, and fellow athletes who remembered him not only for his sporting achievements but also for his leadership and passion for life.
His legacy continues through memorials and initiatives that honour his contributions to sport and community.