Known for his determination, Michael Milton has another setback as he prepares for his sixth Paralympics. Photo: James Crook.
Australia’s most successful Winter Paralympian, Michael Milton, has crashed during a training run in Colorado ahead of the Paralympics, which get underway on 6 March in Italy.
Six-time gold medallist Milton qualified in five Alpine events for the Games in an ambitious comeback at 52 years of age after retiring from competitive racing two decades ago.
Everything was seemingly on target until a crash while free skiing at Winter Park in Colorado this week. He landed heavily on the stump of his left leg, resulting in a fracture of the femur.
His left leg was amputated below the knee when he was nine years of age.
Michael Milton keeps the challenges happening. Photo: David Tang.
Michael is now expected to undergo surgery in the United States, and depending on his recovery, he faces a race against time to be fit for the Games.
“I’m gutted, but after more than 20 years as a ski racer, I know the risks,” Milton said.
“At this stage, I haven’t ruled anything out.”
Michael says, “The support and help from Paralympics Australia has been fantastic. I’m in touch with the team doctor and various specialists in the US and Australia. For the moment, I rest, wait and hope.”
While the timing couldn’t have been worse, Michael is optimistic he’ll be right to go.
