The coming-of-age tale about a boy and his mission to save a mythical kingdom was written in 1962 by an eccentric Dutchwoman and has sold a million copies.
The Dutchwoman was leading the field as they began their final descent for the finish line but lost control of her bike at a turn and came off the road.
Initial reports suggested that she was conscious and responsive in hospital, but it has now been reported that the Dutchwoman has concussion and three cracks in her spine.
