I had planned to start vintage racing this year on my KZ650 and also had the opportunity to try sidecar racing as well as the 'monkey' that rides on the back of the rig.
Well, my attempt at being the 'monkey' did not go as planned. On the second lap at Shannonville last weekend (April 15), coming out of Turn 2, we clipped the red and white raised markers known as 'turtles'. This, unbeknowenst to us, punctured a hole in the oil pan. As we headed towards the left hand Turn 4 and started to turn in, the back wheel spun out on the oil trail. The sidecar then spun around, flicked me off the back, and rolled backwards over my left leg.
I was diagnosed with a dislocated knee and possible fracture of my leg bone right up under the knee. The doctor in Belleville hospital told me I will likely be on crutches for 10 weeks and I am now wearing an imobilizing brace too. I need to get an MRI as there may be pieces of bone under my knee cap and some torn ligaments as well.
I have the now dubious distinction of being the 1st Shannonville casualty of the 2011 season, and, 1st racing casualty at the Belleville hospital.
Needless to say, my racing season has suffered a huge hit and my career as a sidecar 'monkey' is now officially over.
It could have been a lot worse though. At least I'm still here to talk about it.........if anyone is really listening to me or not.