If anything, Pro Stock Motorcycle racer Chris Bostick might be even tough than expected.
Bostick was rushed to Monument Health Hospital in Sturgis late Friday after experiencing severe gastrointestinal bleeding. Doctors believe the bleeding is linked to injuries from his 150 mph crash at the NHRA Northwest Nationals in Seattle 13 days earlier.
After tests, including a CT scan, doctors recommended transferring Bostick to a larger facility in Rapid City. Instead, Bostick chose to return home to Nashville, where he will be admitted to Vanderbilt University Medical Center for further treatment.
Bostick’s Seattle accident occurred moments after he upset No. 1 qualifier John Hall in the opening round. As he crossed the finish line at 145.66 mph, Bostick struggled with a loose helmet strap that allowed wind to lift the helmet over his eyes. Unable to see, he attempted to shut off the bike and adjust his helmet but veered into the opposite‑lane wall.
Despite the jarring impact, data reviewed by crew chief Tim Kulungian later showed the motorcycle sustained over five Gs of side force, although the bodywork did not directly strike the wall. Bostick remained in the seat, stopped the bike, and signaled to TV cameras that he was OK.
“I can’t see anything at all. I’m shutting the bike off, trying to pull my helmet down before I make impact with the wall,” Bostick said after the crash. He thanked fans and said, “Thank you, Jesus, for keeping us safe … God bless [Shawn Reed] and his family,” referring to a fellow racer injured in a crash the previous day.
Bostick later returned on a backup bike, advancing to the semifinals before losing to eventual runner‑up Richard Gadson. Event winner Gaige Herrera said, “It takes a lot of courage to bounce off the wall, then swing your leg over another bike you’ve never ridden.”
Bostick remains in stable condition and is focusing on recovery with the support of his family, team, and sponsors.
