Dan Hemingway @ Erzberg: Rock and Roll in Minor

Dan Hemingway @ Erzberg: Rock and Roll in Minor
British rider Dan Hemingway got badly injured at the 'Erzbergrodeo XX' last weekend in Austria. From his hospital bed in Kalwang he gave us a recap of the events. And he sends big thanks to all who have helped him.

"Well, I had made things difficult by qualifying on the second row, but I was not worried as I've only ever been on the front once, so I knew I could finish strong. The bike didn't start off the line but I made a good pace up the first hills to find myself at the front and quickly made up time into the front runners! I felt strong and fast leaving Bath tub and left 3 kings in a strong position. Then, when I got to the hill before the forest, Ossie Reisinger – the prologue winner – said to go in front of him. So I went past him and attacked the hill.

When I was half way up I saw a rider in front dislodge a rock with his back wheel sending it down the hill! This rock – the size of a TV – hit my leg with great force snapping the lower shin like a twig! I knew it was broken straight away and fell off to the side! Calling a marshal to help from above he radioed for help and came down to shield me from other riders and rocks. It took more than one hour for the rescue crew to get me off the hill, as it was very steep and full of rocks! They did a great job as I could feel the bone through the skin!

When I got to the hospital in Kalwang they operated immediately, putting a rod down my leg from knee to ankle screwing the broken bones to it! The rock shattered it in 3 places! Everyone in the hospital has been great and I've had visits from the owners of the B&B we stayed in for Erzberg! Hopefully I'll fly home on Friday and Marianne Katoch is picking me up to take me to the airport!

This has changed a lot of my plans namely at home with my two boys Harry and George, as they have British trials championships to ride with Harry leading, and I want to help them with their riding!! Now the main focus is to get fit and ready for 'Sea to Sky' in September, then 'Lagares' and the 'Roof of Africa'! This injury will not stop me from riding and I will be back training 100% ASAP!

I would like to say a massive 'Thank You' to all who have helped me off the mountain and the doctors who have put me back together. They made a great job! Also to everyone that has wished me luck and sent get well messages! This is what makes me want to ride again and still be in this wonderful sport! I didn't realise so many people cared! Thanks and see you at the finish at Erzberg 2015 !!" (dan hemingway)