GT Factory Racing’s Enduro rider Dan Atherton will miss EWS1 in Chile due to a hairline fracture to his tibia.

Earlier this week Dan walked away from a spectacular OTB in Finale Ligure with only sore legs to show for it (check the video). But on Thursday afternoon Dan was on a training ride trying to spin out his sore legs when he took another fall that caused a hairline fracture to his tibia.

at the third round of the Enduro World Series, Les 2 Alps, France

Recent high winds in the UK have left many trails strewn with large branches and uprooted trees. Dan said “I was coming round a corner on a descent and a fallen tree was sticking out onto the trail – I tried to dodge it but unfortunately it caught me just below the knee pad, knocking me off my bike. I’m devastated as I’ve never felt more ready to start a season but I’m hopeful that I’ll be back on the bike very quickly ”

Team Director Dan Brown said “Dan’s fracture is fairly minor in itself but because of its position and the huge forces that go through a mountain biker’s knees we need to handle it with care. Thankfully we have Harris and Ross’ Injury Management Team in place so all necessary X-rays and scans were completed in record time and the decision has been made to operate as soon as the swelling recedes. A full rehab programme is already being planned.”

GT Factory Racing will be represented in Round 1 of the Enduro World Series by 2013’s Overall Junior Champion Martin Maes.

Text & Picture: Atherton Racing


Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of ENDURO, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality mountain bike journalism. Click here to learn more.

About the author

Aaron Steinke

Aaron was our first employee and actively helped make our company what it is today, significantly shaping the look and direction of our various magazines. Aaron has been pursuing his own projects since mid-2020 but he continues to advise and support us on issues of marketing and technology. For many years, you would usually have found Aaron at casual enduro races, but increasingly you'll find him riding his road bike – long live freedom on two wheels!