Cycling ‘shoulder charge’ probe kicks off
The Thai Cycling Association (TCA) is investigating the alleged unsportsmanlike conduct of a rider, who was caught on video shoulder charging another competitor and causing a pileup, as he raced to the finish line in Nakhon Phanom.
The video clip of the incident, which happened about 700 metres from the finish line during the Great Mekong Bike Ride 2018 on Sunday, was posted on the Facebook account of “Pawin Pong Suwannacheep”.
It sparked outrage within the community, with posts demanding an investigation into the incident, saying the rider deliberately pushed the fellow competitor and was guilty of improper conduct.
It was reported that the rider went on to win the event.
TCA representative Pongthep Thaptim said the association has launched a probe and called for evidence.
Those involved in the incident, including the injured racers, may be summoned to explain, he said. Reportedly, four or five cyclists fell off their bikes and sustained injuries.
Mr Pongthep said that if the “controversial rider” was found to be in the wrong, he would be reprimanded, and in the worst-case scenario banned from participation in any events organised by the association.
However, the prize is unlikely to be revoked since the result was not challenged immediately after the competition.
Those who were injured in the incident can file a complaint with the association. Their complaints will be reviewed by a committee, he said.
The Great Mekong Bike Ride 2018 was touted by the organiser as an eco-friendly event featuring three categories and including a three-day longdistance triple stage road race along the Mekong River passing through Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan and Sakon Nakhon.