Austrian snowboarder Markus Schairer somehow escaped serious and long-term damage after a horror crash in the quarter-finals of the Snowboard Cross in Pyeongchang, South Korea.
It was later revealed that Schairer broke a bone in his neck from the crash, but the 30-year-old unbelievably got to his feet and finished the race.
The footage below shows how much of an impact the fall had on his back and neck. He is seriously lucky to walk away from this one:
The Austrian Olympic committed released a statement shortly after the horror incident:
Advert
"Snowboard crosser Markus Schairer suffered a fracture of the fifth cervical vertebra during his fall in the quarterfinals in Bokwang. The good news: Neurological impairments are not present, consequential damage can currently be ruled out. In addition, the Vorarlberger pulled an elbow injury." the website confirmed.
"The 30-year-old had come to the penultimate jump hard to crash, but could then independently drive to the finish. The return transport to Austria is prepared (with medical assistance), should take place as soon as possible."
Schairer was checked out by the medical team after the race and was reportedly rushed to hospital after complaining of severe chest pains. The Express claim that he is expected to return to Austria imminently to receive further treatment.
Advert
The Winter Olympics have been criticised in recent days for the windy conditions and yesterday, a Japanese snowboarder suffered a shocking crash in the finals of the men's halfpipe competition.
Sixteen-year-old Yuto Totsuka was carried from the scene on a stretcher after he was seen landing a crumpled heap following the fall on the course. Commentators described the accident as one of the worst they've ever seen in the competition.
Totsuka had just begun his second of three runs and appeared to be attempting a complex trick when disaster struck.
Advert
Event organisers have been slammed for continuing the competition despite the conditions.
Thoughts on the conditions in Pyeongchang at the moment?
Let us know in the comments.
Featured Image Credit:
