Spectator held after cyclist’s family ‘abused’

A spectator has been arrested after the family of an Australian cyclist was apparently subjected to a torrent of abuse at the Velodrome, Locog said.
By The Newsroom
Published 4th Aug 2012, 09:24 BST

Kaarle McCulloch’s mother Karen and stepfather Ken Bates reportedly faced a stream of insults during a dramatic Thursday evening that saw Team GB storm to gold at the Stratford track.

Three people were later banished from the cycling venue, one of whom was held by police, organisers confirmed.

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A Locog spokesman said: “Three spectators were ejected – one of whom was arrested – for abusive behaviour at the Velodrome on Thursday. We won’t tolerate abusive behaviour in our venues.”

The group of fans were removed after three men and one woman apparently hurled a tirade of insults at McCulloch’s relatives, who watched the 24-year-old and her partner, Anna Meares, contest the team sprint.

The couple drew mockery when the cycling duo – who claimed bronze – were beaten into third place by Britain and France, Australian newspaper The Age reported.

The arrest is the latest controversy to dog the cycling after British gold medallist Philip Hindes sparked an outcry after falling in a qualifying round of the team sprint before apparently admitting the tumble had been deliberate.