Paralympic medallist critical after road accident
Double gold winning paralympic cyclist Simon Richardson is in hospital in a critical but stable condition after a collision with a van while out training in south Wales.
Simon Richardson, who won two gold medals and a silver at the 2008 Beijing games, was cycling near Bridgend on Wednesday when the incident occurred.
Reports suggest that he was struck by a white van and thrown to the side of the road. A 59-year-old local man area has been arrested and remains in police custody.
Mr Richardson, 44, was taken by air ambulance to the University of Wales Hospital, Cardiff, where he is being treated for multple injuries.
His sponsor, Phil Jones, reported on his blog that Mr Richardson’s back is broken in two places and that he has also broken his pelvis and breastbone. He is breathing with one lung and he has deep cuts on his leg.
“Medically he remains critical but stable,” Mr Jones said. “The hospital’s team of surgeons and specialists is currently assessing the surgery required for his injuries and the most effective way for each procedure to take place.”
He added: “Simon has shown before that he has the enormous mental and physical strength needed to overcome challenges.”
In a statement Mr Richardson’s wife Amanda, thanked well-wishers for their messages of support for Mr Richardson.
Positive thoughts
“He will be heartened to know that people are extending their positive thoughts and encouragement to him during this difficult time.”
Inspector Tony McAlinden said: “South Wales Police are appealing for witnesses following a road traffic collision that occurred at approximately 9.40am on Wednesday August 17 at the A48 Crack Hill, outside Crack Hill House, Bridgend.
“The Welsh Paralympic cyclist Simon Richardson MBE was involved in the injury road traffic accident. He was apparently struck by a small white van travelling in the same direction. The van did not stop and continued east along the A48 in the general direction of Cowbridge.
“Two further vehicles were later involved in a collision at the same location – a black Toyota Avensis estate car, driven by a 43-year-old man, and a gold Rover 25 car driven by a 74-year-old woman.”
The female driver was taken to Princess of Wales Hospital in Bridgend where she received treatment for chest injuries and was later released.
In 2001, Mr Richardson, of Porthcawl, was seriously injured in cycling incident with a car while out with friends from a cycling club. It left him with serious leg and back injuries and no feeling down his left hand side.
He continued to cycle after doctors recommended it would aid his rehabilitation – using a specially adapted bike powered by his right leg.
Increased awareness needed
Tim Hollingsworth, CEO of the British Paralympic Association said: “We’re deeply shocked by the news of Simon’s accident. He’s in our thoughts and on behalf of everyone in the British Paralympic family, we wish him a speedy recovery.”
Gareth Sheppard, the performance manager for British Cycling’s paracycling team, said: “It’s really, really sad that someone’s life could be threatened by someone not taking due care and attention on the road.”
Sheppard called for increased awareness from all road users: “You’ve got little protection as a cyclist because you are so exposed,” he added.
“We very much want to make sure racing and cycling in general on the road is safe and there does need to be a government-backed campaign on the issue.”