Todd Smith has informed ADB that x-rays taken upon his return to Australia after finishing the Dakar Rally revealed broken T5, T6, T7 and T8 vertebrae.
Smith told ADB the injuries occurred during Stage 10 when he crashed at high-speed after coming across rough terrain that was not clearly marked in the road book.
The New South Welshman rode out the final three stages of the rally not knowing the extent of the injuries he had just suffered and finished 18th overall.
Due the immense pain caused by the injuries, Smith told ADB he rode out the remaining stages of the Rally standing up, because it was too painful to sit down.
Smith is currently in discussions with doctors to determine whether or not his injuries require surgery. We will update you as new information is made available.
Image: Todd Smith with Matt Hart