Nathan Draper unsure whether tacks were deliberate
The winner of Gran Fondo Isle of Man 2019 has confirmed tacks were on the course during this year's event, but isn't sure if they were put there deliberately.
Nathan Draper took the title ahead of Liverpool's Philip Williams, with Cal Crutchlow in third.
Several high-profile competitors found their event was marred by punctures, though Mark Cavendish suffered a double puncture in South Barrule, and 2017 winner Mark Christian also had one early in the race.
Draper says fortune played a part in the eventual standings:
Police 'actively looking' for drink and drug drivers this Christmas
Fine for man who had to be restrained by five hospital porters
Today's Manxman sailings delayed
MHK questions if reduction in NSC hours goes against Island Plan