ADELBODEN, Switzerland – American skier Tommy Ford was taken by helicopter to the hospital after crashing into a giant World Cup slalom on Saturday.
Ford slammed three gates to the finish line after entering the rough snow on the side of the course. His skis touched and he fell forward, sliding down the hill first with his neck and left shoulder.
The United States ski team later said that “Ford’s head and neck injuries are minor and are healing well. He has a knee injury that is undergoing evaluation. “
Ford ran over a runway worker before stopping near the safety nets next to the finish. He initially stood motionless with his face against the snow, although he was soon conscious and talking to the medical staff.
A helicopter landed on the route 20 minutes later to transport the 31-year-old from Bend, Oregon.
Ford has a victory in the giant slalom and two more podiums in 12 seasons on the World Cup circuit. He wore vest No. 4 on Saturday as one of the best drivers after finishing in the top 10 in his last four starts.
Ford’s next scheduled giant slalom is in six weeks – on February 19 at the world championship in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy.