Lindsey Vonn airlifted to hospital after crash during cancelled Olympic event

Lindsey Vonn Injured in Downhill Crash at Crans-Montana World Cup Event

A crash occurred during a downhill skiing event held at Crans-Montana in Switzerland on Friday. Lindsey Vonn, an American skier, lost control while landing a jump and became tangled in the safety nets on the upper portion of the course.

Vonn was airlifted to hospital after receiving medical attention for her injuries, which included a left knee injury that required weight loss. She had been competing in the World Cup event, which was later cancelled due to three crashes among the first six racers.

The incident occurred exactly a week before the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, where Vonn is scheduled to compete in the women’s downhill and super-G events. Vonn has been the circuit’s leading downhiller this season with two victories and three other podium finishes.

According to eyewitnesses, visibility was an issue during the event due to low snowfall, which made it difficult for skiers to see. The crash occurred when Vonn landed a jump off balance, lifting her left arm and pole high into the air in an attempt to regain her balance. She then got spun around and ended up in the nets.

Vonn’s teammate, Jacqueline Wiles, was leading the race when it was cancelled. Other skiers who crashed during the event included Nina Ortlieb of Austria and Marte Monsen of Norway. The incident has raised concerns about Vonn’s participation in the Olympics, which are scheduled to take place on February 8.

Vonn has had numerous crashes throughout her career, including a severe injury at the 2013 world championships in Schladming, Austria.

Source: Al Jazeera