38-Year-Old British Cyclist Suffers Life-Threatening Crash During Comeback at Red Bull Rampage in Utah

The Red Bull Rampage has succeeded in holding its prime spot as one of the most dangerous and notable mountain bike events. However, the 2023 season has made it to the headlines since this season marks the culmination of the decade-long hiatus for the legendary rider, Gee Atherton.  

Renowned for his daring riding stunts and holding an impressive track record, Atherton has made a wildcard entry to the event this year. But during a recent practice session, he suffered a massive crash leading to uncertainty revolving around his participation.

The challenging mountain biking feat adopted by Atherton

In the Red Bull Rampage, Atherton has left a deep mark by showcasing his talent and prowess that secured him second position for the 2004 and 2010 seasons. This year marks his participation for the sixth time driving towards clinching the top spot. 

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As a result of pursuing victory, Atherton and his build team took part in a practice session, riding into the treacherous terrain of the Utah desert. His ambition and daring spirit helped him to craft his line for the event and his standout stunt included an astonishing drop that has been the biggest in the Red Bull Rampage history. 

Based on the reports of Bike Perfect, the monumental drop measured at an astounding 20 meters in a YouTube video by Matt Jones features a rounded take-off that affixes a more difficult layer to the ride. While Atherton was engrossed in his practice session, he faced a life-threatening moment.

A terrifying crash packs the road towards recovery with uncertainty

The adventurous practice session got stalled as Atherton suffered from a massive crash on the colossal drop in the unforgiving terrain of the desert. The captured video has sent shock waves among the fans and the biking community. Although medical assistance was swiftly transported to the scene, realizing his atrocious physical state, Atherton was airlifted from the crash site. 

Amidst the dire shock posed by the life-threatening crash, there remained a streak of hope since the rider has remained conscious throughout the calamity. As a means of pacifying his fans, Atherton took to his Instagram account to update them about his present condition saying, “It was a heavy day at Red Bull Rampage, and an injury update will follow.” Fans poured their reactions in the comments section saying “you are so gnarly!🤯 Heal up quick 🙏“, “I feel bad for the earth on this one. Heal up G ♥️🦍💪🏼” and the messages continued.

Although there has been not much confirmation about the kind of injury the rider suffered from, the PR Manager for Atherton Bikes, Gill Harris described the situation as “not too bad considering.”

As the biking community and fans collectively hope for Atherton’s swift recovery, speculation revolves around his comeback in the Red Bull Rampage, 2023. The mountain biking world stands in solidarity as a means of honoring the unyielding spirit and resilience exhibited by Atherton while greeting inherent risks in the process.

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