Cummins recovering after 11-hour back surgery

McAdoo Kawasaki Racing says rider Conor Cummins is making good progress after a series of operations on the injuries he sustained in a high speed crash during the 2010 Isle of Man TT.

Cummins was battling for the lead in the blue riband Senior TT when he crashed heavily at the Verandah on the Mountain section of the course. The Manxman was airlifted to hospital amid reports he had suffered serious injuries to his back, left arm and left leg.

The McAdoo team said Cummins, who was one of the fastest riders during the 2010 TT, spent a week in the Isle of Man's Noble's Hospital before being moved to the Royal Liverpool Hospital for specialist surgery. On Thursday of last week the 24-year-old, who had been enjoying a strong short circuit season in the National 1000cc Superstock championship, underwent an 11 hour operation to fully repair the damage to his back, which the team said is now complete and nature itself will finish the job.

It added Cummins underwent another operation on Tuesday to repair the fractures in is upper left arm, which are not as badly damaged as first feared. In addition, some work was also done on his injured left knee, but this will require further surgery to fully repair the damage at a later date, the team said.

The statement added:

"All things considered, the big man is in good spirits and is keen to undergo all the necessary treatment in order to return to training as soon as possible."

"He's hungry to regain full fitness and will have no problem in putting in the necessary hours in the gym with physio Isla Scott, who has been a real help to Conor over the past weeks."

"Many thanks again to all the people who sent cards and good wishes to Conor at this time - it is very much appreciated by Conrod, his family and the McAdoo Kawasaki team."

Cummins has already indicated he intends to return to racing next season.