Latest pictures show how far injured TT star Mercer has come since course car collision
Critically-injured racer returns home and is hungry to ride again
TT racer Steve Mercer, who suffered extensive injuries in a horrific crash on the Isle of Man last May, has sat on a motorbike again and is talking about regaining his fitness and getting back on two wheels. Mercer was involved in a terrible accident in the aftermath of a qualifying crash that claimed the life of Dan Kneen. As Mercer and other riders were returning to the paddock by going the wrong way around the circuit, a course car travelling to the Kneen incident collided with Mercer head-on. The outcome of an independent investigation into the incident has not yet be made public. Mercer was initially taken to Nobles Hospital before being transferred to Aintree on the mainland for treatment for fractures to his pelvis, femur, ankle, heel and back as well as damage to his larynx. He also suffered a brain injury. He later moved to Kings College London, and returned to his Kent home on November 10. Commenting on social media, Mercer said: “Six months ago I was hit head-on by an Isle of Man TT course car and somehow lived to tell the tale. Thank you to everyone
‘He faces a very long journey in rehab with no idea at this stage where it will lead’ STEVE’S WIFE CAROLINE
who’s supporting me and to my angels for another chance.”
His wife, Caroline, added: “We are very limited in what we can say due to the ongoing investigations. However, I’m pleased to say that Steve is now home with me and the boys. He faces a very long journey in the rehab part of his recovery with no idea at this stage as to where it will lead.
“As Steve’s going to be in a wheelchair for the foreseeable future, he’s currently looking into a custom chair made to measure and knowing Steve, it’ll probably have carbon wheels, trick suspension and an engine fitted!
“We would like to thank you all once again for your kindness and support in Steve’s journey; we can’t begin to tell you how much it has helped.”
A Just Giving page created to support his recovery and family has so far raised £34,495 (www. justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ stevemercerofficial).
Mercer is now aiming to start cycling again to improve his recovery. “My right femur is 4ins shorter than my left,” he said. “I now want to get fit and strong again.” Anyone who can help him adapt his pushbike should get in touch.
The ACU have previously suggested that the investigation report will not be made public, but MCN will actively pursue the release of the findings.