Cape Town - The mountain biker from the Czech Republic who was seriously injured during the Absa Cape Epic has been transferred to his home country.
Jiri Markuci was admitted to the ICU at Worcester Mediclinicon March 20 after being involved in a crash on Stage 5 of the 2015 race.
Responding to media queries, race doctor and chief clinical officer for Mediclinic Special Events, Dr Jann Killops, said: “The patient was transferred to the Czech Republic at the weekend at the request of his wife for ongoing care and rehabilitation.
On March 20 he had an accident and was resuscitated and stabilised on the scene before being transported to the Mediclinic Worcester,” said Dr Killops.
"He underwent emergency surgery, performed by Dr Neels du Plessis, a general surgeon. At the time of leaving South Africa he was in a stable condition.”
Absa Cape Epic founder Kevin Vermaak said: “This has been a difficult few weeks but we have been reassured by the outstanding work of the medical staff involved. Our thoughts are with the rider, his friends and family”.
The accident happened within 2km of the start of the stage from Worcester to Wellington and medical personnel were on the scene within minutes.
The 13th edition of the Absa Cape Epic which will take place from March 13-20, 2016 will be as challenging as ever. Local and international mountain bikers will tackle the demanding eight-day adventure through the Western Cape region in South Africa.