'It's scary to see situations like this' – rider 'nearly hit' by car driver at Tour of Britain Women

On the first stage of the Lloyds Tour of Britain Women, Australian rider Maeve Plouffe claimed she was nearly struck by a non-race car driver. The 27-year-old, riding for British Continental team O Shea Red Chilli Bikes, was less than two minutes behind the race convoy when a vehicle threatened to collide with her at a roundabout.

Plouffe's Instagram post underscored her concern, noting that such incidents are a growing worry in the wake of another fatal accident - 19-year-old British cyclist Finlay Tarling's death at the Volta a Portugal, struck by a non-race vehicle. Tarling's death, which occurred less than a week ago, had sparked widespread outrage and calls for improved safety measures.

Riders' union CPA labeled the lack of measures to prevent such accidents as "furious". Plouffe had to withdraw from the race after failing to finish stage one. Despite the safety measures, like rolling road closures and a moto escort, Plouffe expressed disbelief at the incident, citing it as a stark reminder of how quickly such tragedies can occur, particularly in the wake of Tarling's death.

British Cycling Ventures, the event's organizer, acknowledged Plouffe's concerns, vowing to review the incident and assure all stakeholders that rider safety remains their top priority. However, history shows that safety issues persist, as several public car drivers have entered race courses in recent years, prompting protests and withdrawals.