Crescent Suzuki rider given the all-clear for Imola after missing the opening round of the World Superbike championship
CRESCENT FIXI Suzuki has announced that John Hopkins has been given the all-clear by his doctor to ride in the second round of the World Superbike championship at Imola.
Hopkins fractured his right hand after crashing heavily in testing at Philliip Island, ahead of the opening round at the same circuit.
Following the crash the American returned back to the United States to undergo surgery to repair the damage and have daily treatment from his doctor.
The 2011 British Superbike runner-up said: “I am so pleased to get the all-clear and cannot wait to get on the bike again. I had been given strict instructions not to do any riding this week, which has been a bit frustrating, but I have occupied my time well with physiotherapy, training and numerous spells in the hyperbaric chamber. All of this has helped me to recover quickly and I have no doubt that I will be as fit as can be in Imola. It’s been very busy recently.
"On Tuesday, I was in the hyperbaric chamber and then drove three hours each way to see my nutrition doctor in Palm Springs. Before that I have really been putting in the hours on my mountain bike and also on the cardio machines in the gym. I am really happy with my hand, how well it has been healing and the range of movement I have got.
"When I saw the doc on Wednesday, he told me that the bone was fully healed and everything was OK and I could start riding again! I’m hoping to get on my dirt bike before leaving for UK on Saturday, but I have just sold my house and there’s loads of stuff to sort out, but I’ll try and fit in a ride somehow."
