Two kangaroos caused significant disruption during the final stage of the **Tour Down Under** on **January 21, 2024**, as they leaped onto the racecourse in the **Adelaide Hills**. The unexpected appearance of the animals sparked chaos among riders, leading to multiple crashes. Footage captured the moment when a kangaroo struck the race leader, forcing several cyclists to collide in the ensuing chaos.
The incident unfolded on the longest stage of the race, covering **170 kilometers** with around **100 kilometers** remaining. As the cyclists navigated steep climbs and completed eight laps in sweltering temperatures exceeding **38°C**, the kangaroos added an unforeseen element to the competitive atmosphere. Witnesses described the scene as surreal, with some riders noting that the kangaroos “threw themselves in front of the peloton.” Live commentators echoed the surprise, with one stating, “Oh, it’s a kangaroo! Never seen that before.”
Race director **Stuart O’Grady** acknowledged the unusual circumstances, stating, “Unfortunately, some hazards you just can’t plan for. Some wildlife you can’t tell to get out of the way.” Despite the chaos, the race continued, although several riders had to withdraw due to injuries sustained during the crashes.
Tragically, one of the kangaroos had to be euthanized due to serious injuries, while the other managed to escape unscathed. Despite the turmoil, Australian cycling star **Jay Vine**, who was among those affected, avoided severe injury. He managed to maintain his lead and ultimately secured his second title in the Tour Down Under.
Reflecting on the incident, Vine humorously remarked, “Everyone asks me what’s the most dangerous thing in Australia and I always tell them it’s kangaroos. Because they wait and they hide in the bushes until you can’t stop, and they jump out in front of you. Point proven today, two of them blasted through the peloton as we were doing probably **50 km/h**.” He added that he collided with one of the kangaroos as it moved erratically.
After regaining composure and changing bikes, Vine finished safely in the main group, trailing behind **Matthew Brennan**, who claimed victory in a sprint to the finish line following a grueling climbing stage. The unusual encounter has since gone viral on social media, with many users commenting on the quintessentially Australian nature of the incident.
As discussions continue regarding the safety of both cyclists and wildlife, some have called for measures to prevent further incidents, proposing a “ban of the dangerous bikes” to protect local fauna. This unusual event has highlighted not only the unpredictable nature of outdoor sports but also the unique challenges faced by athletes competing in the Australian landscape.
