Cyclist flies web ST

Picture Credit: Twitter

The second qualifying heat of the men’s scratch at CWG 2022 witnessed Matt Walls fly over the barriers into the crowd.  The crash saw the spectators getting hurt, with a man receiving a cut on his arm, and a young girl also requiring attention.

Walls, along with fellow cyclists, Matt Bostock and Derek Gee were sent to the hospital by ambulance. One remaining sprint race was cancelled as the medical staff checked on the well-being of other riders. The accident was certainly frightening as the domino effect propelled other few cyclists to change their lane, but instead failed in their respective attempts.

The 24-year-old Olympic omnium champion, Walls tried to avoid the crash lower down the banking, but rode up and went over the top, which ultimately injured him and the spectators. Canada's Mathias Guillemette was disqualified from the race, for causing the initial crash.

Birmingham 2022 spokesperson said: “Following a crash at the morning session of track and para track cycling at the Lee Valley VeloPark, three cyclists and two spectators have been treated by the onsite medical team. The three cyclists have been taken to hospital. The two spectators did not require hospital treatment. We would like to send our best wishes to the cyclists and spectators involved in this incident and to thank the medical team for their swift action.”

The British Cycling took to Twitter to update about the health of Walls.

"Following medical treatment in hospital, Matt Walls has been discharged with stitches in his forehead, but thankfully no major injuries. Our best wishes go to all riders and spectators involved in the crash and thanks go to the medical teams for their expert care," said British Cycling.

Bostock had also undergone a CT scan, and is being assessed to ensure no major injuries have been suffered to him.