John Hopkins will finally be able to debut in this season’s World Superbike Championship during this weekend’s second round at Imola.
The unlucky Crescent Fixi Suzuki rider who had broke his right hand in a pre-season test at Phillip Island that kept him from competing in the first round – he was replaced by Josh Brookes – has received the all-clear from his hand surgeon and will be able to return to action and join his team mate Leon Camier.
“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.
” said Hopkins.
“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.
I am really looking forward to catching up with everybody at Crescent Fixi Suzuki and getting back to to the racetrack.
I’ve missed it, but I feel ready and raring to go.
”