Multiple Accidents at Riderman Cycling Competition Result in Approximately 70 Injuries
In a shocking turn of events, a mass crash disrupted the annual "Rideman" cycling event in Bad Dürrheim, Baden-Württemberg, Germany.
The incident occurred under the A864 highway bridge, during the course of the race on the K5705 between Bad Dürrheim and Biesingen. The race, an amateur cycling event attracting hundreds of participants, was immediately cancelled following the accident.
The crash, which took place in a left-hand curve during today's stage, was approximately 90.8 kilometers long, saw around 70 participants injured. Among them, up to 20 were reportedly seriously injured, while up to 35 sustained minor injuries.
Too many riders navigating the curve at the same time led to uncontrolled falls, causing a domino effect with a large number of cyclists falling onto the road, one after the other. Subsequently, a traffic jam formed among the riders near the first crash site, with many more participants falling.
Despite all safety measures, the organizer noted that such an accident had never happened in the entire history of the "Rideman". The event, which marked its 25th edition this year, saw 1,079 riders starting.
Police reported no external influence on the race. The organizer, acknowledging the inherent risk of falling in cycling, expressed their condolences to the affected participants and assured that they are doing everything possible to assist those injured.
At the scene, up to 25 participants with minor injuries were treated and taken to hospitals. The exact number of injured could not be confirmed by police in the afternoon.
The "Rideman" race in Bad Dürrheim is an annual event, though the specific organizing organization is not explicitly mentioned in the search results. The event has been held multiple times, with the most recent edition including three stages from September 5 to 7 and is a fixed part of the local racing calendar.
Efforts are currently underway to clear the road and assist the injured. The future of the event remains uncertain, with a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident underway.
