Canada's Stefan Daniel misses out on triathlon podium at Paralympics after bike crash

Canadian Para triathlete Stefan Daniel's hopes of capturing gold at the Paris Paralympics were dashed on Monday after crashing during the bike portion of the men's PTS5 event.

The 27-year-old Calgarian was leading his men's race when he crashed his bike into a barricade and was knocked out of contention.

The veteran won silver when Para triathlon made its Paralympic debut in Rio in 2016, and was a bronze medallist three years ago in Tokyo.

After a schedule shuffle and then delays because of the Seine River's water quality, races in 11 different classes got underway — with multiple classes on course simultaneously — at the ornate Pont Alexandre bridge.

Para triathlon is a 750-metre swim, 20-kilometre bike and 5k run.

Fifth after his Seine swim, Daniel had charged to the front with just over 5k remaining on the bike when he misjudged a hairpin turn and flew into the barricades.

He continued to race once he knew his bike was still operational, but his bid for another Paralympic medal was over.

Daniel's face crumpled as he neared the finished line.

"You don't get to go to too many Paralympics in a lifetime," the Canadian said. "I've always held the strong belief if you're physically able to finish a race., you do it. No matter what."

He ultimately finished last among the field of 10 competitors in a time of 1:03:58.

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