Para-cyclist praised for classy response after being awarded watch at World Champs – despite having both arms amputated

PARA-CYCLIST Ricardo Ten Argiles gave a classy response after being awarded a watch for becoming world champion – despite having both arms amputated.

The Spaniard, 48, claimed gold in three separate disciplines at the 2023 UCI World Championships in Glasgow.

World champion Ricardo Ten Argiles was awarded a Tissot watch on stageRex

TwitterTen Argiles released a video wearing the watch shortly after the ceremony[/caption]

But organisers were slammed during the ceremony as they presented Ten Argiles – who has both arms and one leg amputated – with a Tissot watch.

In fact, he was presented with watches on TWO occasions as received his medals and rainbow jerseys.

Yet despite the controversial gesture, cyclist Ten Argiles took the moment in good faith.

He shared a video on social media in his rainbow jersey – which you receive for winning a world title – while wearing the watch he had just been given.

And the person holding the camera asked: “Ricardo, what time is it?”

To which he replied: “The world champion time.”

He also posted: “Thank you TISSOT for believing in this super world of inclusion.”

And those on social media hailed his superb response to the bizarre gift.

Ricardo Ten Argiles won world titles in three disciplinesEPA

He had both arms and one leg amputated as an eight-year-old boyPA

One said: “You are a legend.”

Another added: “If you are looking for an ambassador, here you have the best. Inspiring @RicardoTen_ legend!”

A third responded: “I’m sure @TISSOT will send you a few more now. You earned it.”

And a fourth replied: “You’re a boss.”

Others slammed the awarding of the watch to Ten Argiles, with one saying: “Seriously, they [the organisers] should be embarrassed!”.

A second replied: “Whoever bought the prize is getting fired.”

And another simply added: “Insensitive.”

Ten Argiles had both his arms and his left leg amputated at eight years of age after he touched high-voltage power lines.

Heading into the UCI Cycling World Championships, he was already a three-time Paralympic gold medalist in swimming having made his debut at the Atlanta Olympic Games 23 years ago.

And despite rapidly approaching 50 years old, he is still set to compete at the Paris Games next summer.