'It's unacceptable that our safety keeps being compromised 'for the shot'' – Two riders almost run over by driver of media vehicle at Mid South gravel

At the recent Mid South gravel event, two riders, including professional Lauren De Crescenzo, narrowly avoided being struck by a media vehicle driver who reportedly swerved into their path. The incident, which De Crescenzo described as "unacceptable," prompted a swift apology from the race organisation, who acknowledged an "operational failure" and vowed to review safety protocols. This near-miss highlights persistent concerns regarding vehicle management in mass participation events.

This unfortunate episode is far from an isolated incident, echoing a growing chorus of complaints from riders across various disciplines about the proximity and sometimes reckless behaviour of support and media vehicles. For gravel racing, an increasingly popular format often held on open roads, the stakes are particularly high. De Crescenzo, a former winner of Unbound Gravel, represents a significant voice in the sport, and her public condemnation underscores a systemic issue that race organisers, media partners, and governing bodies must urgently address to maintain rider trust and safety.

Ultimately, the "shot" should never come at the expense of a rider's safety. While apologies are a start, tangible, enforceable changes to vehicle protocols and driver accountability are long overdue if cycling is to avoid a tragedy that feels, at times, inevitable.