Two kangaroos caused significant disruption during the final stage of the Tour Down Under on January 21, 2024, leading to a chaotic scene in the Adelaide Hills. The incident occurred on a challenging 170-kilometer course with approximately 100 kilometers remaining, as the animals unexpectedly leaped onto the route and collided with several cyclists.
Video footage captured the moment a kangaroo crossed paths with the race leader, resulting in a crash that left many riders shaken. A second kangaroo soon followed, compounding the chaos. Participants described the event as surreal, noting how the kangaroos “threw themselves in front of the peloton.” Live commentators expressed disbelief, with one remarking, “Oh, it’s a kangaroo! Never seen that before.”
Stuart O’Grady, the race director, referred to the stage as “one of the best” he had witnessed but acknowledged that the incident overshadowed the competition’s excitement. The race took place amid challenging conditions, featuring steep climbs, eight laps around the Adelaide Hills, and temperatures exceeding 38°C (100°F). Despite the interruptions, the event continued, though several riders were forced to withdraw due to injuries sustained during the crashes.
One kangaroo suffered severe injuries and ultimately had to be euthanized, while the other managed to escape without serious harm. Among those affected was Australian cyclist Jay Vine, who narrowly avoided significant injury. Vine, who retained his overall lead to secure a second Tour Down Under title, reflected on the day, stating, “Everyone asks me what’s the most dangerous thing in Australia, and I always tell them it’s kangaroos… Point proven today, two of them blasted through the peloton as we were doing probably 50 km/h.”
Vine recounted the chaotic moment, explaining how one kangaroo unpredictably changed direction, causing him to collide with it. “It’s one of those things, bad luck,” he added, expressing relief at his own safety and his ability to continue racing after a quick bike change.
The final sprint saw Matthew Brennan of Great Britain emerge victorious, crossing the finish line amid the aftermath of the unusual event. As the footage of the kangaroo encounter spread across social media, many viewers remarked that it “cannot get any more Aussie than that.”
In light of the incident, some individuals have called for measures to prevent future wildlife encounters, suggesting a ban on bikes in areas where kangaroos are prevalent. The day’s events highlighted the unpredictable nature of racing in Australia, reminding participants and spectators alike of the unique challenges posed by the local wildlife.
