Cummins wins PokerStars 'TT Spirit' Award

Conor Cummins has been awarded the 2011 Spirit of the TT Award, following in the footsteps of the 2010 winner Paul Owen.

Manx rider Conor, who lives in the North of the Island, received the award in front of a packed Grandstand after the PokerStars Senior TT Race, the blue riband and final event in the 2011 TT Race Calendar. Conor sustained multiple injuries following an accident at the Verandah on the mountain section of the Mountain Course in the 2010 TT Races. His injuries included five broken vertebrae, multiple fractures in his left arm, nerve damage to his arm and ligament damage to his knee.

A series of rods were inserted to stabilise his spine. His left arm was completely rebuilt with two plates and 16 screws holding the multiple fractures together. Representatives from the Isle of Man Government's Motorsport team, as well as the TT rider liaison officers Richard Quayle and John Barton, judged the award.

Commenting on the award, and his battle back to fitness, Conor said: "It's meant everything to me to be back on the bike racing at the TT.

I've worked really hard since the accident but I couldn't have done it without the help and support of all my friends and family. I'd also like to thank all of my sponsors who stood by me during my recovery."

Paul Phillips, the TT and Motorsport Manager, commented: "Ever since Conor was injured in last year's race he has shown incredible determination and focus to be fit for the 2011 TT Races. He has displayed the true spirit required of a TT racer and is a hugely appropriate winner of this award."

Becs Cubbon, who is responsible for PokerStars on Island sponsorship commented: "We are delighted that the award has gone to a local Manx person and everyone at PokerStars is incredibly proud of Conor's achievement in recovering and competing again at this year's TT".