It has emerged that Mika Noodt‘s race-ending bike crash when leading IRONMAN 70.3 Swansea came after he collided with an ambulance.

The German had opened up a lead of over four minutes with just 10km remaining in what was the latest race in the high-profile IRONMAN Pro Series.

That had put him in prime position for the win – but then disaster struck.

Undergoing medical examinations

The incident wasn’t caught on camera as part of the live broadcast, though Noodt was shown on his feet looking battered and bruised while his bike was lying on the roadside, minus the aero bars.

Thankfully an update on Noodt’s Instagram page around an hour later, alongside a picture of him sitting inside an ambulance, read: “He’s okay.”

It continued with a post-race update: “During a steep downhill section of the bike part of the race, Mika suddenly noticed an ambulance on the race course right in front of him in his lane.

“Mika was able to avoid a head-on collision in the last second and crashed into the side of the ambulance.

“He was able to speak and walk after the accident and is currently undergoing medical examinations.”

‘Bittersweet’ win

The devastating conclusion to Noodt’s race meant the four riders who were four minutes behind him ended up battling for the win.

And it was Briton Harry Palmer who took the title for the third year in succession.

Afterwards in his finish line interview he said the victory was “bittersweet” because of Noodt’s crash and added: “I hope he is okay.”

We asked IRONMAN for their perspective on the incident and a spokesperson told us: “Mika Noodt was involved in a collision with an ambulance that was en route to assist an age group athlete.

“Mika has posted an update on his condition, and we are wishing him a full and speedy recovery.”