Injured Conor Cummins confirms season is over
The serious injuries suffered by Conor Cummins at the 2010 Isle of Man TT have ended his season, but the Manxman has vowed he will return to the track.
Cummins suffered a back injury, broken arm, dislocated knee and bruising to his lungs when his McAdoo Kawasaki Superbike crashed at the high speed Verandah section of the Mountain course during Friday's Senior TT.
He was reported to be conscious and talking at the scene and was airlifted to the island's Noble's Hospital for treatment. Cummins, from Ramsey in the Isle of Man, has remained in hospital since the crash.
Speaking from his hospital bed, 'Conrod' admitted his season - which included more road race appearances and his short circuit campaign in the British Superstock Championship - is over, but he will work hard to be back on the pace for 2011.
He said:
"I know that I have a lot of hard work ahead of me this winter, but I will be doing everything I can to be fully fit and competitive for the start of next season."
He also paid tribute to the marshals and medics who looked after him at the scene and in hospital, as well as thanking well-wishers for their messages of support.
Cummins said:
"I don't know the names of the people who helped me but the marshals and medics were superb from the moment I had the accident. I'd also like to thank all of the staff in the Accident and Emergency Ward at Noble's Hospital who have been brilliant since I arrived."
"I have been really heartened to receive lots of cards and goodwill messages. I've even received toys from children which is very kind."
Cummins' crash came during the re-started Senior TT, which was being run over a reduced four laps. He had been dicing for the lead before the incident.
The race had to be re-started after, on lap three of the original six-lap Senior, Wilson Craig Honda rider Guy Martin crashed heavily at Ballagarey. His bike burst into flames, bringing out the red flag so fire engines could attend.
Despite initial fears for Martin, the popular racer was reported to be conscious and talking at the scene and was airlifted to hospital with chest injuries and minor fractures to his upper spine.
It has now been confirmed he is due to leave Noble's Hospital in the Isle of Man today or tomorrow.
Karsten Schmidt, who crashed during the first Supersport race, has been moved to a hospital in his native Germany. Sidecar passenger Joseph Shardlow remains in hospital, where his condition is described as comfortable and improving, while Pete Alton requires further treatment on a leg injury.
