Boswell could be grounded for good ...

WINDSOR – The neck injury that will keep high jumper Mark Boswell out of the Olympic track and field trials this weekend could also end his career.

Boswell, who has been plagued by injury and personal misfortune since the 2004 Athens Olympics, ruptured a disc in his neck during training for the trials earlier this week.

The 30-year-old from Brampton has been a bedrock for the Canadian team over the years, winning a world junior title, two world championship medals (silver and bronze), a Commonwealth Games gold medals and many other honours.

He always prided himself on an ability to raise his game when wearing the Maple Leaf.

“That’s why he’s so devastated right now,” said Dr. Jerry Ramogida, a chiropractor who has worked with Boswell throughout his career. “This is what he lives for.”

Ramogida said that if Boswell has to undergo surgery to repair the disc, it would make it very difficult for him to recover to a point where he could compete successfully again.

That had been an issue for Boswell even before his latest injury.

He got an injury exemption for last season from Athletics Canada after undergoing ankle surgery and has been unable to get back on track. He competed only once this season, jumping only a dismal 2.19 in Martinique in May – well below the qualifying standard and his own personal standard set over a decade of competition.

He’s also been overwhelmed by family issues.

He’s been helping to take care of his mom, Norma, since she suffered an aneurysm in February of 2006. His father Levi came in January from Jamaica to help out, but then he suffered a stroke. Ramogida said that Norma Boswell recently suffered another stroke.

This guy will be missed if this is it. He's really been a great warrior for Canada.

Comments

[Tennis Ball Machines]

It's sad to see someone fall out so close to the dream. Hope he is able to recover.

[Chris]

47 Years after winning silver in the triple jump at the 1961 CAAU Championships it is very clear to me now that the higher prize is caring for your family and those you love. Mark, your greatest competition is ahead of you not behind.