Testing crash puts Walsh in doubt for Bathurst
Brad Jones Racing co-driver Ash Walsh is in doubt for next week’s Bathurst 1000, after being injured in a high-speed testing crash at Phillip Island yesterday.
Ash Walsh, Brad Jones Racing Holden
Daniel Kalisz / Motorsport Images
Walsh was reportedly testing an Australian-built sports prototype at Phillip Island when he went off at Turn 1, rolling multiple times.
He was airlifted to Hospital in Melbourne, where he was diagnosed with bruising and a contusion on his right lung.
While he was cleared of any broken bones, after initial fears of a broken leg, his injuries are extensive enough to mean he is in doubt to partner Tim Slade at Mount Panorama next week.
“I think it’s going to be touch-and-go for Bathurst,” Walsh told the official Supercars website.
“I’m going to do some oxygen therapy. The lung might not be an issue, but I’m pretty bruised everywhere, so if all of that goes down I should be fine.
“I’m not even sure what happened [in the crash]. Before I even knew anything had happened I was going backwards and flying, before it started rolling over.
“I was conscious the whole time, but I kind of wish I wasn’t, to be honest.
“When it stopped I thought I was in a fair bit of trouble. I was in a lot of pain because I’d been thrown around quite a lot.
“In those circumstances you can’t tell how injured you are because of the adrenalin. There was a suggestion I had a broken leg, but thankfully I don’t have any breaks.
“The paramedics on site were careful putting braces in place before getting me out and treating me out. The helicopter took me to hospital for further treatment.
“They wanted me to stay [in hospital] overnight but I was keen to get out of there and get some treatment back at home.
“It’s really too early to tell, but I’m hoping to be ready for Bathurst. I’ll definitely go to the event regardless, so fingers crossed it can all improve enough in time.”
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