Former Race Across the World contestant Sam Gardiner has died at the age of 24 after being involved in a car crash, the New York Post reports.
Gardiner was driving a white Volkswagen alone in Manchester, England, when the vehicle left the roadway and overturned before landing on its side last Monday (May 26), according to Greater Manchester Police. The Britton died from injuries sustained in the crash at a nearby hospital last Thursday (May 29).
"We are devastated by the loss of our beloved son Sam in a terrible accident," Gardiner's family said in a statement released by Greater Manchester Police. "Sam left us far too soon, and whilst words will never fully capture the light, joy and energy he brought into our lives, we hold on to the memories that made him so special. Sam was adored by his family. As a son, brother and nephew, he was loyal, funny and fiercely protective.
Gardiner, who worked as a landscape gardener in Greater Scotland and was visiting his family in Manchester at the time of his death, appeared on the second season of the popular BBC series Race Across the World alongside his mother, Jo, at the age of 19 in March 2020. The mother-son duo traveled across Mexico and Argentina without phones during their stint on the show.
Emon Choudhury, who won the series with his nephew, Jamiul, during Season 2, shared a tribute to Gardiner on his Instagram account.
"I’m deeply saddened to share that my dear friend Sam has passed away. Many of you will remember him from Race Across the World—where he and Jo showed us what it truly means to live fully, love fiercely, and embrace every moment with an open heart," Choudhury wrote.
"Sam was pure sunshine in human form. his kindness was a beacon for anyone lucky enough to cross his path. He made us feel seen, supported, and braver than we ever thought possible. With every warm smile and encouraging word, he reminded us that life’s greatest treasures are the connections we make and the love we share.
"Though his journey here ended far too soon, Sam’s generous spirit will keep guiding us. I find comfort knowing that his light lives on in the laughter we still carry, the dreams he inspired, and the countless ways he taught me that he was always stronger than me in every way."