FMF KTM Factory Racing’s Ben Kelley Undergoes Shoulder Surgery
Press Release | March 3, 2020
Kelley hopes to return to racing by the end of July.
This is a press release from KTM…
Murrieta, CA (March 3, 2020) – FMF KTM Factory Racing Team’s Ben Kelley underwent shoulder surgery last Thursday to repair injuries sustained during a routine practice session the week leading up to the opening round of the Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) Series.
The two-time GNCC XC2 250 Pro Champion attempted to race the GNCC season opener in South Carolina before making the ultimately decision to sit out. The doctor confirmed that Kelley had sustained a major dislocation, as well as a superior labral (SLAP) tear, in his right shoulder and he underwent surgery last week to repair the injuries. He is set to begin a physical therapy regimen this week in hopes of returning to racing by the end of July.
Ben Kelley: “With the help of some friends, I was lucky enough to get into the operating room right away and have a successful surgery. I am only five days out from surgery but things are already looking good. I’m set to start physical therapy tomorrow and am optimistic about getting back to my daily routine of riding and training as soon as possible. I will have a better understanding and more specific time table for my return to racing as I progress through physical therapy and start to regain my strength.”
Kelley’s injury comes after a statement victory in his National Enduro Pro class debut in early February, where he was primed to contest the overall championship in his rookie season.
Antti Kallonen: “It is truly unfortunate for Ben to suffer this injury after coming off a very strong off-season preparation and stellar season opener in National Enduro and then to have practice crash that takes him out for most of the season is a real set back. But I know Ben will surely bounce back to where he left off and we will do everything to ensure he comes back 100% healthy.”
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