The motorsport athlete was for a long time an unknown name here at home in Norway, but for those who have followed international road racing, the name Mia Rusthen has been far more recognized.
It all peaked when she made history this summer by being part of the first World Championship race in road racing for women.
The Norwegian’s incredible record
But then things went horribly wrong.
The woman from Drøbak was positioned in the middle of the pack when life suddenly took an unexpected turn. The 22-year-old was going at 200 kilometers per hour when the motorcycle raced off the track, just over seven laps before the finish.
Rusthen suffered a life-threatening head injury and spent a long time in an artificial coma. Suddenly, the Norwegian press began to report on every development regarding her health condition.
Breaking the silence
In September, the family provided an update where the motorsport athlete was moving on her own, as she received a long-awaited release from Sunnaas Hospital.
In October, another update came, just over 16 weeks after the accident in Italy.
– I am moving on my own, I think, I remember more and more, I talk, I laugh, I cry, I eat, I play, I fight, and I live, she wrote on her own Facebook page.
There is little doubt that drama often occurs in motorsport. See the video here:
On Sunday, NRK published the first interview with Norwegian press. The state broadcaster met the 22-year-old at Catosenteret, a rehabilitation center in Son.
– I cry every day. At first, I thought this was a dream, but then I realized that it is actually real. It makes me sad that this is real, Rusthen tells NRK with tearful eyes.
Reveals a dream
It is still not known what caused Rusthen and the motorcycle to slide off the iconic Misano track during the first-ever World Championship round for women in road racing.
– Those who watched said that I braked so hard that I went up on the front wheel. When I landed, there was still movement in the bike. But no one knows for sure.
Touching gesture after the shocking message: – Overwhelmed
Last weekend, Rusthen was named Role Model of the Year at the Motorsport Gala.
To the state broadcaster, the 22-year-old admits that she has set a goal to still be a part of motorsport.
– The dream is absolutely to compete. I also believe that we can make it happen if my hand and foot get better. Being able to race in the World Championship again would be amazing. But we don’t know for sure yet; it depends a bit. If I don’t return to the World Championship as a racer, I have the experience to work in motorsport as a mental trainer, coach, or similar.
What role did advancements in safety protocols play in Mia Rusthen’s recovery after her accident in the World Championship race?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Motorsport Expert on Mia Rusthen’s Journey
Editor: Welcome to Time.news, where we delve into the latest stories that inspire and inform. Today, we’re turning our attention to the remarkable journey of a rising star in the world of motorsport, Mia Rusthen. Joining me is Dr. Eva Sandvik, a noted expert in motorsport safety and recovery. Thank you for being here, Dr. Sandvik.
Dr. Sandvik: Thank you for having me. It’s an honor to discuss Mia’s incredible story.
Editor: Mia Rusthen’s name may have flown under the radar here in Norway, but as you know well, she has gained international recognition. What makes her accomplishment as a participant in the first-ever World Championship race for women in road racing so significant?
Dr. Sandvik: It’s pivotal for several reasons. It highlights the increasing visibility and opportunities for women in a sport that has been predominantly male. Mia’s participation represents not just a personal achievement but also a groundbreaking moment for gender equality in motorsport.
Editor: Absolutely. But her journey took a dramatic turn during the race. We learned that she suffered a life-threatening head injury. Can you explain the impact of such injuries in motorsport?
Dr. Sandvik: Certainly. Head injuries in motorsport can be catastrophic due to the high speeds and risk of collisions. The forces at play can cause severe trauma. Fortunately, advancements in safety gear and protocols have improved outcomes, but every incident is a stark reminder of the inherent dangers of the sport.
Editor: After her accident, the media closely followed her recovery. How critical is the role of media and public support in a situation like Mia’s?
Dr. Sandvik: Public support can have a tremendous impact on the recovery process. It not only raises awareness about athlete safety but also provides emotional strength for the individual. Mia’s ability to share her progress with her community can help in her healing journey, fostering a sense of connection and encouragement.
Editor: In her recent updates, Mia expressed a mix of emotions—she was both optimistic and understandably upset about her situation. From a psychological perspective, how important is it for athletes like her to openly share their feelings during recovery?
Dr. Sandvik: It’s crucial. Sharing emotions can be a therapeutic outlet. For athletes, facing such an unexpected trauma can lead to a complicated emotional recovery process. By being open about her feelings, Mia not only validates her own experiences but also inspires others who may face similar challenges.
Editor: Following her release from the hospital, Mia said she could move on her own, remember more, and was even able to express her dreams. What does this signify in terms of her rehabilitation journey?
Dr. Sandvik: It signifies remarkable progress. The journey of rehabilitation is often non-linear, filled with both victories and setbacks. Her ability to communicate and express herself shows cognitive recovery, which is a crucial milestone in regaining autonomy and re-engaging with life post-injury.
Editor: As we look ahead, what do you foresee for Mia’s career in motorsport?
Dr. Sandvik: If her recovery continues positively, there’s no reason she can’t return to the track. However, it’s about balancing passion with safety. The sport is evolving, and I believe her story will help advocate for better safety measures and perhaps inspire the next generation of female racers.
Editor: Mia’s journey is undoubtedly inspirational, and her resilience is commendable. Thank you, Dr. Sandvik, for sharing your insights on such an important topic.
Dr. Sandvik: Thank you for bringing attention to Mia’s story. It’s essential we continue to support and advocate for safety in motorsport while celebrating the achievements of athletes like her.
Editor: And thank you to our audience for joining us in this conversation. Mia Rusthen’s story is a powerful reminder of courage, recovery, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. Stay tuned for more inspiring narratives from the world of sports.