Distressing Accident.

South Canterbury Times, Issue 2980, 2 January 1901, Page 3

Distressing Accident.

A very distressing accident happened on the cycling track at the Caledonian Society’s gathering yesterday. Mr A. L. Finch, a visiting cyclist from Dunedin, who had ridden in several races previously, was one of the competitors in the first heat of the mile race. He was riding in the fifth position, well clear of the others, when on coming to the almost level portibn of the asphalt track and riding at a pretty fast pace, his machine side-slipped and he came down with great force on the very hard track. The result of the fall was most serious, for in addition to severe bruises on the left ankle, leg, thigh, shoulder and col-lar-bone, he sustained a compound comminuted fracture of the left forearm and the point of the elbow was also splintered. The smashed arm was by far the most serious, for the bone protruded through the flesh of the arm on the upper side and . the muscles and tissues generally were lacerated. Dr Reid and Dr Gabites (the Hospital surgeon) were at once in attendance, and having put the aim in rough splints, had Mr Finch taken to the Hospital, where the wounds were properly dressed. On making enquiry last evening we were informed that there is every probability that the aim will have to be taken off. The accident created a. great sensation and threw a gloom over the many present, as it happened right "in front of the lawn and the most densely packed part of the ground. The young man bore his sufferings with much bravery, as it was very apparent that he was suffering great pain. The deepest sympathy was expressed for him, and for his sister who was among the ladies who witnessed the sad accident. Wt are pleased to hear that the Society is likely to-day to show their sympathy in a substantial manner. The accident is by far the most serious that has taken place on the track on the Society’s grounds.