Yukiya Arashiro takes his polka-dot dog for a ride.
(Image credit: Yuzuru SUNADA)
We've all been thinking it, waiting, wondering, longing. When, oh when were we finally going to get the opportunity to see professional cyclists posing on a decorated (and decidedly miserable) donkey?
Well the wait is finally over, as the Vuelta a España organisers set about rectifying this at the start of stage three in Mijas on Monday. Ever wanted to see Sammy Sanchez sit on a glammed up equine while simultaneously being hugged by a man dressed up in an orange donkey suit? Here's your chance.
Imagine if the Premier League made Wayne Rooney pose with a overly decorated cow outside Old Trafford before the start of a game. It just wouldn't happen. Which pretty much sums-up the eccentric brilliance you definitely should love about this sport.
Sammy's enjoying it. But not as much as that guy in the orange suit.
(Image credit: Yuzuru SUNADA)
Carlos Verona goes side saddle
(Image credit: Yuzuru SUNADA)
Matteo Montaguti takes his chance in the spotlight. The rider behind looks less than impressed.
(Image credit: Yuzuru SUNADA)
There's even a queue forming behind Alberto Losada...
(Image credit: Yuzuru SUNADA)
Mikel Landa gets aero on his ass
(Image credit: Yuzuru SUNADA)
Ben King and Alex Howes take their donkey riding seriously.
(Image credit: Yuzuru SUNADA)
Leonardo Duque says he's just doing it for the kid, but we really know it's for him
(Image credit: Yuzuru SUNADA)
And finally...
Fabio Aru takes his turn, as Vincenzo Nibali curses his luck that he got disqualified before the donkey day
(Image credit: Yuzuru SUNADA)
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Richard is digital editor of Cycling Weekly. Joining the team in 2013, Richard became editor of the website in 2014 and coordinates site content and strategy, leading the news team in coverage of the world's biggest races and working with the tech editor to deliver comprehensive buying guides, reviews, and the latest product news.
An occasional racer, Richard spends most of his time preparing for long-distance touring rides these days, or getting out to the Surrey Hills on the weekend on his Specialized Tarmac SL6 (with an obligatory pub stop of course).
