While many may not have their attention turned towards the BMX racing part of the Olympics, the event drew significant attention to its dangerous nature relayer today. Expected to be a thrilling race with capable competitors on the course, spectators soon witnessed a horrific accident involving world Champion Connor Fields.
The Rio 2016 gold medallist, in a crucial 180 corner of the race, found himself connect to the back wheel of Romain Mathieu, who was leading the racer then. He was close to overtaking Mathieu when the unfortunate contact saw him lose balance and crash to the ground.
BMX racing is brutal.
Hope Connor Fields is alright 🙏 pic.twitter.com/QZCkvuk2eW
— djspice (@officialspicyj2) July 30, 2021
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Fields was then run over by Twan van Gendt of the Netherlands and Sylvain Andre of France, who in turn, fell to the ground. Badly injured, he was treated by the medical stage at the Ariake Urban Sports Park tracks. The American was later carried away by ambulance.
Hours after the incident, the USA cycling team doctor provided a much-anticipated update on the star: “We can confirm that Connor Fields is awake and awaiting further medical evaluation. We will share additional updates as they become available.”
Connor Fields was not able to defend his gold medal
The race was eventually won by Niek Kimmann from the Netherlands, who managed to narrowly dodge the earlier catastrophe. As of now, all three cyclists involved in the accident are safe and look to make a complete recovery.
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Although BMX racing is not exactly a main sport in the Tokyo Olympics, it does carry as much if not more risk than other sports. Earlier in July, Nick Jonas of the Jonas Brothers suffer a cracked rib after falling off his bike in an attempt on the BMX racecourse. This was a part of the band’s NBC promotion titled ‘Olympic Dreams’.
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This incident involving Connor Fields reiterated the dangers of the track and ensured that he would not be able to defend his title. The 28-year-old had secured the gold medal in Rio five years ago but was met with a crushing end this time.
We are yet to hear from Fields himself as he recovers in the hospital. As of now, there are no issues reported in his recovery or any updates on his condition.