A pair of kangaroos caused a significant disruption during the final stage of the Tour Down Under on January 21, 2024, as they leaped onto the 170-kilometer course in the Adelaide Hills. The unexpected encounter resulted in a crash involving several cyclists, leaving both participants and spectators stunned.
The incident occurred approximately 100 kilometers into the race, when one kangaroo suddenly appeared on the course, colliding with the race leader. Shortly after, a second kangaroo entered the scene, exacerbating the chaos. Riders described the experience as surreal, with some noting that the kangaroos seemed to “throw themselves in front of the peloton.” Live commentators expressed their astonishment, with one remarking, “Oh, it’s a kangaroo! Never seen that before.”
Despite the unusual circumstances, the race continued. However, several riders were forced to withdraw due to injuries sustained during the crash. Tragically, one of the kangaroos had to be euthanized due to its injuries, while the other managed to escape unharmed. Race director Stuart O’Grady acknowledged the incident, calling the stage “one of the best” he had seen, but admitted that the crash overshadowed the day’s events.
Among those caught in the collision was Australian cycling star Jay Vine, who managed to avoid serious injury and maintain his lead in the race. Vine reflected on the dangers posed by wildlife in Australia, stating, “Everyone asks me what’s the most dangerous thing in Australia and I always tell them it’s kangaroos.” He further elaborated on the incident, describing how one kangaroo “went left, right, left, right, left, right,” leading to a collision with his bike.
Following the crash, Vine was able to quickly remount and, after changing bikes, he rejoined the race. He ultimately finished safely in the main group, with British cyclist Matthew Brennan winning the sprint to the finish line after a grueling climbing stage.
The bizarre incident has since garnered significant attention on social media, with many users commenting that it “cannot get any more Aussie than that.” Some individuals have even called for a ban on cycling in areas frequented by wildlife to prevent further harm to animals.
As the Tour Down Under continues to be a highlight on the cycling calendar, this incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of outdoor sports, where both athletes and wildlife can unexpectedly intersect in dramatic ways.
