Helping an injured cyclist

This e-mail speaks for itself:

PureBlack Racing cyclist Michael Torckler was involved in a hit and run accident in California on the 29th June. Such were Michael’s injuries he was taken via helicopter to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital Friday afternoon with major head injuries, facial cuts and unconscious in what the hospital defined as a critical condition.

Michael’s mum and dad flew to be by his side and come Saturday he gained consciousness and is making good progress but has over 20 fractures around the face and skull and will have a long recovery.

Michael came back from a serious knee injury to win Octobers K2 cycle race and join PureBlack racing more recently winning the Tour of Borneo.

With the need for Michael’s parents to travel to be with him – Greg Cross of Pure Black Racing has given support for a fund to be set up to provide some assistance for the family.

Michael Torckler is a courageous and dedicated young athlete.

An incident like this is a nightmare for parents and anyone who would like to donate and offer support please email Alwyn Poole at alwyn.poole@gmail.com He will then send through bank account details as to how to make a donation to help support them and cover some expenses. Every dollar donated will go to the Torckler family.

The man accused of running him down is a four-time felon.