ADELBODEN, Switzerland – American skier Tommy Ford was airlifted to hospital after crashing into a giant World Cup slalom on Saturday.
Ford crashed three gates on arrival after entering the rough snow near the course. His skis touched and he fell forward, sliding first up the hill on his neck and left shoulder.
The ski team from the United States later stated that “Ford’s head and neck injuries are minor and resolve well. He has a knee injury that is subject to further evaluation. “
Ford overturned a worker in the direction of the course before stopping near the safety nets near the finish line. He initially stood motionless on the snow, although he was soon conscious and spoke to the medical staff.
A helicopter landed on the flight 20 minutes later to fly the 31-year-old cursor from Bend, Oregon.
Ford has a giant slalom victory and two more podiums in 12 seasons on the World Cup circuit. He dressed as the number 4 on Saturday as one of the best drivers after the last 10 places in his last four starts.
Ford’s next scheduled giant slalom is in six weeks – on February 19 at the World Championships in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy.