- Snowboarders campaign has come to an abrupt end
Aussie snowboarder Cam Bolton’s Winter Olympics campaign has come to an abrupt end after he broke his neck in a training session.
The 35-year-old was due to start competing in the snowboard cross on Thursday night (AEDT) – but has since been ruled out following his transfer to a Milan hospital.
Bolton, a three-time Olympian, was given medical treatment by Australian team staff for serious symptoms following the incident.
He then reported worsening neck pain before being sent for a CT scan, which identified two neck fractures.
The snowboarder had to be transported to Milan for further scans as a result, and has since been ruled out of competition.
His replacement is reserve athlete James Johnstone, who will make his Olympic debut on the Livigno snowboard cross course.
Aussie star snowboarder Cameron Bolton (pictured) will not take part in the Winter Olympics after breaking his neck
Bolton (pictured) is a veteran of the sport and has taken part in three Winter Olympics
Bolton isn’t the only Aussie snowboarder to be ruled out.
In a double blow, reports have confirmed halfpipe competitor Misaki Vaughan will also not compete after failing a head injury assessment.
Vaughan hit her head during halfpipe training and according to an official statement, showed symptoms of a head injury.
She was removed from training and was forced to undergo concussion protocols.
Unfortunately, she hasn’t passed any relevant testing.
It means the 20-year-old is not permitted to snowboard for seven days, ruling her out of the event.
The news comes as a Norwegian biathlete has stolen the headlines at the Winter Games.
After winning bronze in the men’s 20km Individual race, Sturla Holm Laegreid confessed to cheating on his long-term girlfriend on live TV.
Bolton (pictured) suffered two fractures in his neck while training in Milan
Cam Bolton and wife Grace (pictured together) were married in August last year
Laegreid issued an emotional plea, wanting her to take him back.
But the bronze medallist refused to name her in a bid to protect her privacy.
The Winter Olympics continue until February 22.
Australia is yet to claim any gold medals.
