Barrel's injury makes worlds downhill questionable

Fabien Barrel (Kona) crashed and injured himself just a few weeks before the world championships in Fort William, Scotland. His participation and level of performance at Worlds depend on a speedy recovery and are in doubt.

"After the race in Crankworx, I stayed an extra two days to ride and enjoy the tracks at Whistler," said Barrel. "But on the last day, two hours before leaving, I came around a corner and two riders were stopped in the middle of the track. I went off the track to avoid hitting them, and when I tried to get back, a rock on the path made me fly out to the other side and onto a bank.

"My right foot hit hard and I broke three of the metatarsal bones. This week can take up to eight weeks to recover, but Worlds are in five."

"The doctors and I agreed to try a three week cast with one week for therapy to get back on the bike for Worlds. The odds are tough, but I am 100% committed to do everything reasonable to make this happen. Adapting to these situations and coming out strong is part of the job."