UPDATE: Worthing kitesurfer Lewis Crathern still in coma

A CHAMPION kitesurfer from Worthing is still in a medically-induced coma after a serious accident during a competition in South Africa.
Lewis Crathern was injured in an accident on SundayLewis Crathern was injured in an accident on Sunday
Lewis Crathern was injured in an accident on Sunday

Lewis Crathern, who was the freestyle British champion from 2005 to 2008, was hurt while competing in the semi-finals of the Red Bull King of the Air competition at Big Bay in Blouberg, South Africa, on Sunday.

His parents are now at his bedside, having flown to the country earlier this week.

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His mum Sandra Crathern posted on her Facebook account last night from Cape Town, stating: “Off to bed and praying Lewis comes out of his induced coma soon, it’s tough seeing him like that as any mum can understand.

“Courtney MacDonald and her family have been like second parents to him whilst all this has been going on and we are blessed she is a such a loving amazingly strong girlfriend.

“Thank you everyone for such incredible support, we feel so blessed.”

Shortly after Sandra arrived in the South African city she posted about Lewis’s condition: “Arrived here in South Africa and so grateful to Courtney MacDonald, Dave and Stefanie for being Lewis’s surrogate family.

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“He is still in his induced coma but all his vitals are good and they will hopefully bring him out of it in the next few days, not liking the tubes everywhere though.

“Looking forward to seeing Lewis smiling at me again.”

Before Lewis had the accident, he was in the top spot of the King of the Air competition and had previously spoken about his desire to win a world title.

To read sports editor Steve Bailey’s previous interview with him click here

Lewis is also well known for having previously jumped over both Worthing and Brighton piers.

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According to news reports from the country, Lewis was injured when he attempted a massive kite loop at the start of the second semi-final, but his kite stalled and he slammed into the surf on his back after freefalling 15 to 20 metres.

To read the original story click here

Leave your messages of support for Lewis by commenting on the story.

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