Yaxley and Rhodes continue to make progress

The recovery of South Australian cyclist Alexis Rhodes, 20, and her team mate Tasmanian Louise Yaxley, 23, remains on track as the pair continue their rehabilitation at the University Clinic in Jena, Germany. Yaxley and Rhodes were two of five cyclists injured in last month's tragic road accident in Germany which claimed the life of her teammate Amy Gillett. The other three, Nichols, Brown (see story) and Graham have since returned to Australia to continue their recovery.

Australian Institute of Sport Director, Professor Peter Fricker, received an update overnight from the doctors treating Rhodes and Yaxley and said the news remains encouraging. "Louise is going gangbusters and her recovery is getting better and better from day to day," said Prof. Fricker. "Doctors conducted some routine scans of her head and say the bruising has resolved itself and there are no neurological signs to be concerned about.

"All her stitches have been taken out, the wounds have healed and the skin grafts to both arms have taken well," he said. "The pins and screws put into her fractures are also showing a good healing response. Doctors are now thinking about taking the pins out of her elbow and putting it in a splint instead so she can begin to exercise it."

Both Yaxley and Rhodes have been moving freely around the hospital and have amazed everyone with their high spirits and positive attitudes. "Everyone is so happy with the way they have rallied and the progress they are making," said Prof. Fricker with Yaxley expected to fly home by the end of the month.

"Alexis may be in the hospital a little longer than Louise because of the nature of her injuries," said Prof. Fricker. Rhodes suffered a damaged lung in the accident. "She was due to undergo x-rays overnight ahead of a procedure to assist her recovery from the chest trauma and she won't be able to fly for a while after that.

"But the doctors say the broken bones in her back are knitting well and she is enthusiastically pursuing the exercise regime that has been put in place for her," said Prof. Fricker.