British cyclist Lizzie Armitstead has confirmed she has avoided serious injury after being taken to hospital after colliding with photographers seconds after winning the opening stage of the Aviva Women's Tour.
Armitstead celebrated with her arms aloft as she crossed the finish line in Aldeburgh, Suffolk before "appearing to lose control", race organisers said.
The 26-year-old Boels Dolmans rider then hit photographers stationed at the side of the road before a handful of other competitors became caught up in the chaos.
Armitstead, whose honours include Olympic silver in the road race at London 2012, received treatment on the road before being taken away by ambulance.
Hours after the crash, Armistead revealed on Twitter that she had escaped serious injury but confirmed she would not take part in Thursday's second stage.
I remember winning with the help of my team mates and then not much else, but I am ok, nothing broken just very sore, thank you for all your
- Lizzie Armitstead (@L_ArmiTstead) June 17, 2015 kind messages and to the NHS staff who took care of me so well. I won't start tomorrow in the hope of recovering properly for the Nationals.
- Lizzie Armitstead (@L_ArmiTstead) June 17, 2015
In statement, the Women's Tour said: "After crossing the line with her arms in the air stage winner Lizzie Armitstead appeared to lose control and veer left, clipping photographers positioned beyond the finish line.
"Lizzie was immediately attended to by race medical staff at the finish line who dealt with the incident before being taken to hospital.
"Everyone from the Aviva Women's Tour wishes Lizzie all the best for a speedy recovery and will make no further comment at this stage."
Bob Howden, British Cycling President, said: "All at British Cycling send their best wishes to Lizzie Armitstead and those affected by the crash that followed Lizzie's victory in Stage One of the Women's Tour.
"Lizzie showed again today what an outstanding athlete and competitor she is, and I hope she is back in the saddle as soon as possible."