While covering the action from the pool, Clare Balding has been keeping viewers informed about other events happening around Paris. On Monday, she highlighted Team GB cyclist Tom Pidcock, who made headlines with an impressive recovery during the men’s cross-country mountain biking event.
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Clare Balding
Pidcock, 24, overcame a puncture to retain his gold medal, a feat that showcased his determination and skill. However, during her live broadcast, Balding’s mention of Pidcock’s surname seemed to confuse some viewers. Fans were convinced that she accidentally said “Big” instead of “Pid.”
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Following the broadcast, fans took to social media to react. One wrote, “Has someone been messing with the autocue?” while another playfully commented, “She really said it didn’t she?! Clare Balding – you minx!!” A third fan asked, “DID CLARE BALDING JUST SAY…?”
Despite the buzz, it remains unclear whether Balding’s slip was intentional or a simple mistake.
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Pidcock’s victory was particularly poignant given his recent struggles. He had to withdraw from the Tour de France earlier this month after testing positive for COVID-19. Despite a 40-second deficit midway through the race, Pidcock’s resilience shone through as he clinched the gold medal.
Pidcock’s win was met with mixed reactions, including some boos from the French crowd after his daring move to overtake local favorite Victor Koretzky. The collision and subsequent boos from the audience highlighted the intensity of the competition.
Rob Maul’s Analysis
Rob Maul described Pidcock’s performance as one of the greatest and most thrilling in British Olympic history. He noted that despite the bland course, the race was anything but dull. Pidcock’s final-lap maneuver, which saw him overtake Koretzky in a dramatic fashion, was compared to an F1-style race line, adding to the excitement.
Speaking to BBC’s Hazel Irvine post-race, an emotional Pidcock expressed his gratitude and reflected on the challenges he faced. “It wasn’t easy. I’m keeping my glasses on for a reason!” he said, his voice breaking. “The Olympics is so special. You never give up, in everything, and that’s what I had to do.”
On his bold move to overtake Koretzky, Pidcock added, “He left a gap, so I had to go for it. That’s racing. Some people might view it differently. I wanted to show what sport is about: not giving up. It’s a shame the French were booing me, but you know…”
Pidcock’s remarkable performance and emotional response have made his Olympic journey one to remember.
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