Capital of Culture – Bus instead of bike: Starting problems at the European Peace Ride – Panorama

Chemnitz/Bad Ischl (dpa) – The start of the European Peace Ride in Bad Ischl (Austria) fell victim to the persistent rain in the region this morning. The 150 cyclists were completely soaked in a short time and frozen to the bone in temperatures of just four degrees, said spokesman Arndt Hecker. In addition, in view of the risk of storms and flooding in the region, the police and rescue services did not want to be tied up in the project.

The athletes are now travelling by bus to Lipno in the Czech Republic. A decision will be made this evening as to whether the second stage to Pilsen can start as planned on Saturday.

The European Peace Ride (EPR) is a project by Chemnitz as the European Capital of Culture 2025. It is intended to celebrate sports culture and set an example for peace. At the same time, it was reminiscent of the earlier Peace Ride – a popular cycling race that was held for decades in the eastern countries of Europe from 1948 onwards and was intended to contribute to European understanding.

This year, in the fourth edition of the tour, the cyclists will symbolically bring a baton from Bad Ischl – one of the current European Capitals of Culture – to Chemnitz. Despite the unsuccessful start, they will have it with them, assured Hecker. The finish line in Chemnitz is scheduled for Sunday afternoon at the ice sports center.

© dpa-infocom, dpa:240913-930-231549/1