LOCAL TT rider Conor Cummins was awarded the 2011 PokerStars Spirit of TT Award in June.
 
He received the award in front of a packed Grandstand after the PokerStars Senior TT Race.

Conor was chosen to receive the award by the government's motorsport team as well as TT rider liaison officers Richard Quayle and John Barton.

The panel chose Conor after he suffered multiple injuries following an accident at the Verandah on the Mountain Course in the 2010 races.

His injuries included five broken vertebrae, multiple fractures in his left arm, nerve damage to his arm and ligament damage to his knee.

A series of rods were inserted to stabilise Conor's spine and his left arm was completely rebuilt with two plates and 16 screws which held the multiple fractures together.

Speaking about his recovery Conor said: "It's meant everything to me to be back on the bike racing at the TT. I've worked really hard since the accident but I couldn't have done it without the help and support of all my friends and family. I'd also like to thank all of my sponsors who stood by me during my recovery."

Paul Phillips, TT and motorsport manager, said: "Ever since Conor was injured in last year's race he has shown incredible determination and focus to be fit for the 2011 TT Races. He has displayed the true spirit required of a TT racer and is a hugely appropriate winner of this award."

Becs Cubbon, who is responsible for PokerStars on Island sponsorship, said: "We are delighted that the award has gone to a local Manx person and everyone at PokerStars is incredibly proud of Conor's achievement in recovering and competing again at this year's TT."

This story is part of isleofman.com's Review of the Year 2011.