Just one week ago, we heard of the accident of Patrice Martin (FRA) who has played a major role in the development of our World Cup Rookie Programme in Doha, Qatar over the years. The good news is that Patrice is responding well to treatment and still hopes to be with us at our World Cup Stop in Doha Qatar on November 13/15.

Patrice Martin with Aspire Rookies in Doha

Patrice has also updated us on exactly what happened. During the Senior Tour Slalom Practice round in Recetto, Italy, he fell on Ball 2. His left forearm went through the handle. When the boat tightened the rope, he heard a pop. A trip to the Hospital confirmed that nothing was broken but he had severe bruising. Foillowing Medical advice, he felt well enough, although in pain, to compete the following day. He started on the 14.25m line to avoid stress. His 13m and 12m passes were smooth. A little mistake on Ball 5 and a late Ball 6 then gave a pile of slack line. Patrice let the handle go – but it somehow wound itself around his right arm. The boat popped him out of the water. He was in pain but saw no open wound. The arm was however broken. He had surgery the following Wednesday receiving a plate, screws and a pin. It was then discovered that some muscles in the back of his hand were also damaged. The pin will be removed on October 29th and then the rehab will start. We wish Patrice a speedy recovery and hope to see him soon back on the water again with our World Cup Rookie Programme.