New Zealand cyclist Dion Smith had an unexpected run-in during the Giro d’Italia bike race on Sunday when a goat ran into his path and struck his bicycle.
The incident happened during the third stage of the race, which stretched 99.4 miles through Albania. Smith was able to stay upright and continue riding, and the moment was caught on video.
Smith, who rides for the Intermarché-Wanty team, was riding along when he noticed a group of goats near the roadside. To avoid them, he moved over, but one goat suddenly jumped into the road. The animal brushed Smith’s leg and hit his back wheel before quickly running off.
Luckily Smith did not fall. He kept control of his bike and safely finished the stage in 124th place. He crossed the finish line about 15 minutes after the winner, Mads Pedersen of Denmark.
Speaking after the race, Smith said he had expected to possibly see a wild dog, but wasn’t prepared for a goat to cross his path. “There’s a lot more goats down here,” he joked.
The Giro d’Italia is one of the biggest cycling races in the world and takes place in different parts of Europe.
I thought it was a kiwi bird