Pro Cycling Race-Day Dramatically Rescued Using Bike From Museum of Gravel World Championships

Australian pro cyclist Nathan Haas recently found himself in a race against time and circumstances. The 34-year-old gravel specialist is known for his stints with Cofidis, Katusha, Dimension Data, and Garmin. He has also had an illustrious career, with 12 years in the sport. Unfortunately, in a heart-pounding turn of events at the UCI gravel world championships, the cycling professional encountered a sudden barrier. Shockingly enough, his beloved ride, a pink, blue, and purple-colored Colnago G3X, became its sole root. 

Just hours before the race, the anticipation in the Veneto region was palpable. Nathan Haas was set to ride on his chosen bike, but on the cusp of the thrilling race, his fate showed a different plan. As the clock ticked down to the championship, disaster struck when Haas revealed that his prized Colnago was nowhere to be found. Recovering from COVID and eager to make his mark, the pro cycling rider took to Instagram with news that sent immediate shockwaves. 

Pro cycling race impacted by transport mishap 

Reportedly, the bike had vanished mysteriously at an airport and remained unfound, adding to his misery. In a last-ditch effort to salvage the race, Haas even sent out a desperate ‘SOS’ to Colnago. While the company was busy celebrating Tadej Pogačar’s victory at Il Lombardia, his call was answered by Gabriele Sirtori, Colnago’s digital manager. Soon, Sirtori embarked on an unexpected journey to retrieve Haas’ 2022 Gravel Worlds bike, which now rests in the company’s museum.

Sirtori’s mission to be present in the race was nothing short of heroic. He made a three-hour, 300-kilometer dash across northern Italy, even stopping at Schwalbe for new tires and a bike shop for pedals and gels. Meanwhile, Haas also had to scramble to source essentials like kits, bottles, and chain lube that had been packed with his missing bike. The scene was one of exhaustion and relief as Sirtori and the 2022 Colnago arrived at the race start in Spresiano. A grateful Haas posted a photo on Instagram, acknowledging the monumental effort made to salvage his race.

Airline’s act of recklessness costs heavily for cyclists 

Haas shared his words of gratitude for the incredible assistance, quoting, “After a huge effort, my bike angels have arrived.” Declaring his thankfulness, the cyclist emphasized the unwavering dedication of those who came to his rescue. Yet, despite the valiant effort and the bike’s remarkable return, he was unable to clinch the coveted rainbow jersey. While many similar mishaps have surfaced recently, Hass’ case earned a brutal consequence. 

After losing grip of his bike, the cycling enthusiast was left to reflect on what could have happened, as his defeat was marked by Matej Mohorič storming to victory. While this incident faced a shocking end, it was not an isolated stance of the cyclists facing hurdles. Many pro cycling athletes come across the nightmare of misplaced bikes due to airline mishaps. From triathletes to riders in prestigious events, these tales of lost, damaged, or broken bikes continue to haunt the cycling community.

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In the world of professional cycling, where seconds matter, the story of Nathan Haas and his ‘museum bike’ served as a reminder of his dedication and determination. Haas may not have claimed victory, but his journey to the UCI gravel world championships is a testament to the camaraderie within the cycling fraternity. As the savior bike stays in the spotlight at the company’s museum, it depicts the unpredictable twists that can affect a cycle race. 

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