2010-02-12 16:20:21 GMT
Matt Aug – AHN Sports Editor
Whistler, Canada (AHN) – Georgian luger Nodar Kumaritashvili died from injuries in a crash after flying off the Olympic track and crashing into a metal column Friday during a practice run in Whistler, Canada.
The 21-year-old was reportedly knocked unconcious and had blood pouring from his face as a result of the crash.
“Georgian slider Nodar Kumaritashvili has had a serious crash in the final run of official training for the men’s singles on Friday,” an official statement read. “The 21-year-old fell out of the track when he crashed. He was treated onsite by medical staff who administered CPR and was then taken away in an ambulance.”
Kumaritashvili’s momentum from one of the fastest points of the track apparently carried him over the wall after he crashed into both sides.
The Whistler Sliding Centre has already been the site of several crashes, including one from 2002 and 2006 gold medalist Armin Zoeggler of Italy.
Romania’s Violeta Stramaturaru was momentarily unconscious as a result of another crash on the 16-turn course that features the world’s longest drop at 152 meters.
Training at the track has reportedly been suspended while officials discuss the situation.
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