'They were speeding at over 100 km/h': Top cyclist Esow Alban hit by bikers during on-road training session

Eswo Alban (Pic: AFP)

India's premier cyclist Esow Alban narrowly escaped serious harm after being struck from behind by two motorcyclists during a training session near the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex on Wednesday. The incident occurred while the 24-year-old was on a routine road ride, when two bikers, reportedly speeding at over 100 km/h, collided with him from the rear.

Esow, who hails from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, currently trains and resides at the SAI Cycling Academy, home to a state-of-the-art velodrome that holds official recognition from the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), the world governing body for cycling.

Taking to Instagram after the incident, Esow shared his experience: "Today, I was hit from behind by two bikers during my training ride. They were speeding at over 100 km/h. I was in my lane. Focused. Disciplined. Yet they blamed me and showed no regret," he wrote. "I'm grateful to be safe, with only a few scratches."

The collision left him with bruises on his hands and buttocks, while the rear wheel of his bicycle was severely damaged due to the force of the impact.

Expressing his frustration and concern for fellow athletes, Esow emphasized the importance of road safety and awareness. "This could've been worse, not just for me, but for any cyclist on the road. To everyone out there: We cyclists are not in your way. We are humans. We are athletes. We represent our nation," he said.

"Respect cyclists. Give us space. Give us safety." He also extended his gratitude to those who supported him immediately after the accident. "Thank you to my coach, team coach, and the officer who stood by me and are helping with the investigation," he added.

Cycling Federation of India Secretary General Maninder Pal Singh described the incident as 'minor', confirming that Esow had received medical attention and was recovering well. "He (Esow) has been given first aid and he is fine now. It was a minor accident and he is at his room. He should be able to train again tomorrow," Singh told PTI.

Providing additional details, Singh noted, "He was on a routine training ride on the road (near IG Sports Complex). He was behind a bus and then hit by a bike."

Esow made history as the first Indian cyclist to win an individual medal at the world level, claiming silver in the keirin event at the 2018 Junior Track World Championships. He followed it up with a silver in sprint and a bronze in keirin in the 2019 edition.