Ben ‘finkes’ desert race is best

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Alex VlahosKalgoorlie Miner The Finke Desert Race is regarded as one of the toughest and most tumultuous off-road races in the world and Kalgoorlie resident Ben Thornby has the honour of


saying he completed it in style. More than 530 competitors begin the 460km course from Alice Springs to Finke and back and Thornby, at his first attempt in the race, finished in an extremely


creditable 41st position. The race was thrown into chaos just days before it began when Australian Speedway legend Leigh Adams sustained serious spinal injuries in a tragic fall during


practice. Adams, a 10-time Australian Speedway Grand Prix champion, was flown to Adelaide Hospital where he underwent a six-hour operation to stabilise and strengthen his depleted spine. He


is still recovering and it is unknown if he will ever walk again. Thornby said the accident sent a shockwave through competitors, but admitted injuries were part of the sport. “It’s sad, but


racing is racing,” Thornby said. “That’s the nature of the terrain out there, if your not comfortable ride slower otherwise it will bite you.” The 29-year-old said finishing the race was a


proud moment for him and in such a prominent position was unreal. GET THE LATEST NEWS FROM THEWEST.COM.AU IN YOUR INBOX. Sign up for our emails