In 2016, Paralysis was a real concern for medics treating British cyclist Victoria Williamson, after she broke her neck, back, and pelvis in a horror crash. But, the cyclist has defied the expectations of medical experts, Despite numerous fractures and dislocations, she also suffered a cut so deep it exposed her spine.
The 25-year-old will complete a remarkable comeback by racing for Great Britain at the Track Cycling World Championships in Poland tomorrow to the surprise of many.
Williamson was racing at the 2016 Rotterdam Six Day event, when she collided with Elis Ligtlee who was home favorite.
“If you look at my hospital discharge sheet I shouldn’t even be here, I was told I may not be able to walk, and next there was a doubt I’d ride again, It wasn’t just the physical pain that was tough, it was the mental as well with having things you’d taken for granted taken away like going to the toilet and being able to wash on your own.”
“I am proud of myself but more thankful for all of the support from everyone who’s helped me get back here.”
But returning to cycling was “always” on Williamson’s mind throughout the grueling rehabilitation.
In September 2017, she began light cycling again, January 2019, she made her international comeback at the Hong Kong World Cup and a second-place finish in the women’s team sprint at the National Track Cycling Championships, just days later secured her a place at the Worlds.
On Wednesday, 27th Feb. 2019, the 25-year-old will complete a remarkable comeback by racing for Great Britain at the Track Cycling World Championships in Poland. In Poland, she will race in the women’s sprint – an event in which she secured her sole World Championships bronze medal in 2013 – as well as the individual 500m time trial.
“Expectations-wise, I’ve nothing set in my head as I just want to lay down a good performance. If I can get a personal best and deliver our absolute best it’s another step to Tokyo, Whatever I achieve now is a win already,” she says.
Her crash happened just before she had a chance to qualify for the 2016 Rio Olympics, now, her long-term target is the next Olympics, Tokyo 2020.
