After experiencing a stunning start to the 2022 Pro MX Championship at the opening round in Wonthaggi just a few weeks ago, the tables quickly turned on Sunday with Luke Clout going down in race one and sustaining a broken leg while leading the race.
Clout jumped out to an early lead at the Gum Valley circuit, south of Mackay in Queensland, and was just starting to increase his lead when he lost traction on a fast section of track resulting in the bike going sideways before flicking him to the dirt. Clout fell heavily and awkwardly and lay still on the track as the medical team rushed to his aid.
The on-track diagnosis was a suspected broken tibia and fibula in the lower leg and that was confirmed by the medical staff once X-Rayed. With the support of the RACESAFE team both at the track and then working with doctors behind the scenes, Luke had his leg realigned and placed in a supporting cast before flying back to Brisbane where he underwent surgery on Tuesday.
An update on Clout’s condition will be posted in the coming days but it is expected he will miss several rounds of the Pro MX as his focus will be on full rehabilitation from his injuries.
“I recall the whole thing but I’m not too sure how it happened. The rear of the bike stepped out and because of it being such a high-speed section of the track, the next thing I know I’m on the ground and my leg is in pain.
“I can’t thank the RACESAFE team enough for their support. Simon Maas and his team have gone above and beyond to look after me as have the CDR Yamaha team to make arrangements for me and my family.
“It’s disappointing and frustrating but I will be back. I love racing and this is my first major injury since 2016 so I have had a pretty good run. I will do the full rehab and come back when I’m 100% ready to go,” Clout said.
Despite being in the racing game for over 40 years, days like this are never easy for team owner, Craig Dack.
“Sport always has a way of bringing you back to earth and it’s hard not to feel the emotions of the day when you see how much effort the riders and them team put in. Luke has been riding extremely well and was in good shape to retain his championship so it’s heart-breaking for him and his family for this to happen but I’m sure he will be back and he will be ready to unleash some serious frustration when he returns.
“I also want to commend the job RACESAFE do at our events. They have been nothing but amazing to deal with and happy to assist at every level to get Luke the help he requires,” Dack concluded.
