ALPINE:

Hudec breaks hand on late gate at Wengen

Jan. 15, 2011 — Alpine Canada  

WENGEN, Switzerland — Canadian alpine ski team veteran Jan Hudec is receiving treatment for a hand injury he suffered during Saturday's World Cup downhill race in Wengen, Switzerland.

The 29-year-old, of Calgary, Alta., struck his right hand on a gate toward the end of his run on the famous Lauberhorn course. Hudec was able to complete the run in a time of 2 minutes, 34.02 seconds and was the top Canadian, finishing in 21st place.

Dr. Stephen French, medical co-director for Alpine Canada, said Hudec fractured his right hand and is due to have surgery in Zurich, Switzerland, as early as Sunday. The medical team due to perform the surgery has extensive experience working with World Cup skiers. It's too early to confirm whether Hudec will return in time for next weekend's World Cup stop at Kitzbühel, Austria.

"Team officials are trying to determine when the most appropriate return to competition will be," said Dr. French. "It remains hopeful for the remainder of the season."  S-Magazine