Massive Incident at RiderMan Race in Bad Dürrheim Leaves Nearly 100 People Injured
In the picturesque town of Bad Dürrheim, Germany, a tragic incident occurred during the 25th edition of the RiderMan cycling race. On the stretch between Bad Dürrheim and Biesingen, approximately 100 cyclists were injured due to a mass crash during a slight descent.
The incident took place on the second day of the three-day event, which attracts over 1,200 participants. The crash was caused by too many riders attempting to navigate a tight left-hand curve at the same time, leading to a domino effect that saw cyclists falling onto the road like dominoes under an overpass.
A video from the race organisers shows the chaotic scene, with numerous cyclists crashing into each other. The crash was not limited to the initial group, as more riders crashed nearby due to a backlog in the race.
Upon closer inspection, the tire involved in the incident showed a deliberately caused cut in the sidewall, indicating intentional sabotage rather than accidental damage. An external influence on the race was ruled out, leaving the question of who was responsible for the sabotage unanswered.
The organiser, Rik Sauser, mentioned hearing about a punctured tire, but this has not been confirmed yet. In the aftermath of the crash, four rescue helicopters were deployed to treat and transport the injured, with up to 25 people with minor injuries being taken to hospitals.
By Sunday evening, more affected individuals had come forward, leading police to count a total of approximately 70 people with minor injuries. Up to 30 cyclists were seriously injured, but not critically. Numerous ambulances were also deployed to the scene.
Following the incident, the cycling event was cancelled, with the organisers expressing their deepest sympathies to those affected. The race did not take place at the start or finish, suggesting that the crash occurred somewhere in between.
The RiderMan is a popular cycling event in the region, consisting of a time trial and two road races. The cyclists at the crash site were traveling at about 70 kilometers per hour. This year marked the 25th time the RiderMan was held, making the incident all the more shocking.
As the investigation continues, the cycling community and the town of Bad Dürrheim are left to pick up the pieces and reflect on the tragic events of the day.
