Mia Rusthen won the most important race, namely, the one for her life. Four months after her terrible accident in Misano, the Norwegian rider returned to the paddock to attend the last round of the World Championship in Jerez.
We all remember her accident in Race 1 on Saturday in Misano, when she suffered a severe head injury with concussion after a fall. Her medical condition was very serious but she slowly improved, until she was discharged from the hospital.
Today, accompanied by her sister, Mia spoke to the media and spoke about what happened.
"I definitely feel better," she began. "This is the most important thing, and I'm very happy to be here in Jerez for this last Superbike race. I'm still on my health journey, and it's going to take time. But, inside, I'm grateful for life and being here again and feel the affection from the paddock."
Mia, what are your health conditions?
"Unfortunately, I'm still struggling to walk, and my hair isn't as long as before," she said smiling. "What matters, though, is that I'm here with my legs. I'm at 60 percent of my physical shape and, after this race, I'm going back to Norway to continue my recovery process."
What did the doctors tell you?
"To recover 100 percent, I'll need a year. It's still a long way but, inside me, there's will and determination. Once I finish, I know that I'll also be able to get back on a motorcycle, and I'd like to do that, because I love this world."
You mentioned that you'd like to get back into motorcycling.
"Exactly! That's what I'd like. Actually, I'd like to stay in this racing world because there's so much passion, and I love motorcycles."
What do you remember about that terrible Saturday in Misano, in June?
"Unfortunately, I don't really remember the dynamics of the accident. In fact, to tell the truth, I don't remember anything. The only thing I remember is that I braked hard, lost control of the front, and then nothing more. It was a complicated time, but now I'm here with the sun shining."
What do you think about this Women's World Championship?
"I think this championship is a good opportunity for all the girls to show themselves. I've had a chance to watch the last two races, and it's a great exciting challenge. It's really nice to be here in Jerez, to catch up with the other girls, after a shitty time. Finally, I want to thank everyone for the great support. This has given me and my family great strength and motivatio during this difficult time."