From mankinis to mammals, there are plenty of interruptions for riders in the world’s toughest bike race. Photo: SBS World News
Forget about blood, sweat and tears… Riders have had to deal with wayward dogs, lost sheep, scantily-clad spectators and flying urine during the Tour de France.
The Tour de France is one of few international sporting events that allows spectators ready access to the course and its competitors. That’s why so many people love it, but it sometimes comes at a price for the riders.
Here’s a look at some memorable spectator moments in Tour de France history.
Spectator’s splash
British rider Mark Cavendish was given a nasty surprise during this year’s Tour de France when a rouge spectator threw urine at him during the 11th stage – a time trial. When asked how the cyclist knew what the substance was, Omega Pharma sports director Brian Holm said Cavendish “could taste it wasn’t lemon juice.”
OricaGreenEDGE’s bus blunder
The Orica-GreenEDGE team bus caused chaos on the first stage of this year’s tour when the vehicle became stuck under an arch at the finish line, moments before riders were due to cross.
The ‘mankini’
Whether riders like it or not, the g-string “mankini” has become a staple item for some overzealous fans at the tour.
Car collision
The rivalry between cyclists and car drivers is well established, but riders at the Tour de France don’t usually expect the issue to crop up. No such luck for Team Sky rider Juan Antonio Flecha, who was clipped by a television technician’s car while the driver attempted to to overtake him during the 2011 tour.
Flashers
A lone spectator mooned race leaders during the ninth stage of this year’s tour, but the surprise generated little response. Riders are frequently subjected to displays of nudity and other antics from rowdy fans, leading many to question the race’s security meansures.
Rider punches costumed fan
Spanish rider Alberto Contador lashed out at a costumed fan running alongside him during the 2011 race. – SBS World News
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