The German Track Cycling Championships came to an abrupt halt on its final day after a serious incident involving two cyclists crashing into the crowd, resulting in multiple injuries. The crash occurred during the men's keirin semi-finals when the riders lost control on the final bend and veered over the barriers at approximately 35 mph at the Dudenhofen track in western Germany.
Seven spectators were injured in the accident, with some sustaining serious injuries. Two of the injured individuals required immediate airlifting to a hospital for treatment. Fortunately, the two cyclists involved escaped with only minor injuries. Emergency services, including two helicopters, six ambulances, and an on-site doctor, were swiftly deployed to manage the situation.
Oliver Streich, the marketing and communications officer for German Cycling, emphasized the priority of safety, stating, "The health of athletes and spectators always comes first. Cancelling the event was therefore unavoidable. Best wishes for a speedy recovery go out to all those injured."
Jens Hartwig, chairman of the Dudenhofen Cycling Club, expressed his shock at the incident, saying, "I'm deeply saddened by the accident. We've enjoyed a cycling festival here in Dudenhofen for five days, and no one wanted it to end this way. My heartfelt wishes for a swift and full recovery go out to everyone affected."
The incident has raised concerns about safety measures at high-speed cycling events, with authorities likely to review protocols to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
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