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Cycling race accident at Riderman event leaves up to 70 people injured

Bike race chaos in Bad Duerrheim, Black Forest: Multiple crashes result in numerous injuries, with up to 20 participants classified as seriously hurt, according to the police report.

Multiple accidents at the Riderman cycling competition result in approximately 70 injuries reported
Multiple accidents at the Riderman cycling competition result in approximately 70 injuries reported

Cycling race accident at Riderman event leaves up to 70 people injured

In the picturesque town of Bad Dürrheim, Baden-Württemberg, a tragic incident unfolded during the 25th edition of the renowned "Riderman" cycling race. This popular amateur event, known for attracting hundreds of participants each year, was marred by a mass crash that left around 70 racers injured.

The incident occurred in the afternoon, near Bad Dürrheim, on the K5705 road between Bad Dürrheim and Biesingen. The first crash took place under the A864 highway overpass during today's 90.8-kilometer stage. The cause of the crash was due to too many riders attempting to navigate a left-hand curve at the same time, leading to uncontrolled falls.

Reports from the scene describe a chaotic scene, with a large number of cyclists falling onto the roadway, one after the other, leading to a pile-up of riders near the first crash site. Participants have shared harrowing accounts of riders falling like dominoes.

Approximately 20 participants were severely injured, while up to 25 with minor injuries were treated on-site and taken to hospitals. Another approximately 35 racers also sustained minor injuries. Four helicopters and numerous ambulances were involved in the large-scale rescue operation.

Organiser Rik Sauser expressed his deep regret and concern for the safety of the participants. Despite all safety measures, the risk of falls is inherent in cycling and cannot be entirely eliminated. In response to the incident, all race events were cancelled.

This year's "Riderman" marked the first such massive accident in the event's entire 25-year history. The organisers and authorities are currently working to provide a final tally of the injured, which could not be provided by police in the afternoon.

The "Riderman" is one of the most popular amateur cycling races in southern Germany, attracting cycling enthusiasts from far and wide. Our thoughts are with those affected by this unfortunate incident.

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