One Of The Most Brutal Crashes You’ll Ever See Cost This Dutch Cyclist A Gold Medal

Anyone who has watched even a few hours of cycling coverage — whether it be the Tour de France or the Olympic races that happen once every four years — has probably seen a scary crash occur on the course. It could be a huge pile-up involving multiple competitors or a nasty slip that results in a lone cyclist losing ground. Not matter what the outcome, watching cyclists crash in real time is pretty much always scary and unsettling.

As you can see from the above video, a crash that happened during the Women’s Road Race in Rio was no different. Annemiak Van Vleuten, in the lead with only 11 miles left at the time, crashed so brutally that it was unclear if she would immediately get up after the fall. Van Vleuten flew over her handlebars and landed hard on the curb in a crumpled heap. The commentators reaction matched what the audience was probably thinking at the time — namely “ohhh it’s bad” — but fortunately Van Vleuten turned out to be okay in the end.

The crash ended up costing her a gold medal, which was won by her fellow countrywoman Van Der Bregge, but the fact that she is conscious and seemingly clear of any permanently-debilitating injuries is what is most important. A scary sight that appears to have a better ending than many would have expected based on the video of the accident.

UPDATE: Now that Van Vleuten has been checked out at the hospital, there is more information on her injuries from the crash. Reports say she has three serious cracks in her spine and as of now remains in the Intensive Care unit.

We wish her the best of luck in her recovery and a speedy return to health.

(via Barstool Sports)