Tony Elias Injuries
Following a crash during Moto2 testing at Jerez, Team Gresini rider Toni Elias was at the Teknon medical center in Barcelona yesterday for surgery to repair injuries sustained. Elias has just this year, stepped down from the premier MotoGP class to the new Moto2 intermediate class where he has been one of the fastest all amongst a highly competitive group of 600cc GP riders.
During Tony Elias surgery, Dr. Joaquim Casanas, traumatology and hand specialist, operated to close the fractures on his left ankle and the little finger of his left hand. Elias had screw inserted into his ankle and a plate with five small screws measuring just 1.5mm each inserted to the finger.
As soon as the operation was over the Spaniard began his rehabilitation process under the guidance of Ricard Huélamo, Director of Sports Physiotherapy at the Telkon Medical Center. It is a process Elias has undertaken with great determination, raising hopes of a return to action in time for the first race in Qatar on April 11th.
Motorcycle racers are in tune with fast recoveries and the pain that goes along with the post operation recovery. But Mother Nature requires her own time in the healing process.
Elias finished 7th in the MotoGP World Championship, riding for San Carlo Gresini Honda. He unable to secure his MotoGP ride with the team, but stays with them this year again in their Moto2 team, riding the Moriwaki MD600 and was regarded as a favorite for the title.
Due to the level of competition and the shear number of Moto2 entrants, Elias chances at that title will be impacted greatly if he is not able to make the first few Moto2 race of the year.
The 2010 Moto2 racing season starts out on April 11th at the Grand Prix of Qatar (Losail). This race is in question for Elias. Next Moto2 moves to the Grand Prix of Japan (Motegi) on May 2nd, which gives Elias and his injuries more time to mend.