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Palin mistakes fans for protesters at rally

(Agencies)
Updated: 2008-10-14 14:54

RICHMOND, Virginia -- US Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin mistook some of her own fans for hecklers Monday as a rally that drew thousands.

US Republican vice presidential candidate Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin speaks to supporters during a rally at the Richmond International Raceway Monday, Oct. 13, 2008, in Richmond, Va. [Agencies]

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A massive crowd of at least 20,000 spread across the parking lot of Richmond International Raceway, and scores of people on the outer periphery more than 100 meters from the stage could not hear.

"Louder! Louder!" they began chanting, and the cry spread across the crowd to Palin's left. Some pointed skyward, urging that the volume be increased.

Palin stopped her remarks briefly and looked toward the commotion.

"I hope those protesters have the courage and honor to give veterans thanks for their right to protest," she said.

Some in the crowd tried to shout toward her what was really being said, but she couldn't hear them.

Some in the crowd had stood in place for more than three hours on a sunny day without shade. At least 25 people collapsed from heat-related illnesses and three were hospitalized, according to authorities with the Henrico County fire department.